First look at EastEnders' Michelle Collins in new horror movie The Haunting of Helen's Bridge

Virgin Radio

24 Jan 2024, 13:34

Trigger warning: Suicide/Depression

EastEnders star Michelle Collins has left her own Cindy Beale ghost behind and can be seen starring in new horror-thriller - The Haunting of Helen's Bridge.

The Albert Square actor plays a grieving parent who takes her own life at the famous bridge, based in North Carolina.

Set to hit the big screen in 2025, it features real-life paranormal footage captured from the bridge which has been woven into the storyline.

The synopsis reads: "The Haunting of Helen's Bridge follows the malevolent spirit of Helen, a grieving mother who, overwhelmed by the loss of her child, met a tragic end by tying a noose around her neck and hanging herself from the bridge. Actual paranormal footage captured at the bridge is woven into the narrative."

Collins told fans on social media: "So enjoyed doing this film!"

The Walford icon said in a statement: "I've never been in a horror genre movie before, so I was thrilled when this opportunity came along.

"Despite initially being worried about having nightmares after the filming, I genuinely enjoyed the whole experience, and I'd love to make another horror now. I can't wait for people to watch it."

Directed Stephen Presley added: “I aspired to craft a film that intricately blurs the lines between fact and fiction, creating a space where authenticity prevails in every element.

Reprising her role after 26 years, the star made a jaw-dropping return to Walford in August 2023 as Cindy, who is thought to have died off screen during childbirth, but the character had been living a double life under the moniker 'Rose Knight'. 

Michelle, who first appeared in the BBC soap in 1988, told The Sun: "I said to my agent, 'Oh, this is ridiculous, it's never going to happen'.

"But we had this breakfast meeting and [executive producer Chris Clenshaw] got his laptop out and reeled it all off, we both went, 'Wow, oh my God', and then I was like, maybe this could work."

Speaking about not returning sooner, she said: "It's about timing, life is about timing, and it wasn't the right time. I think if it had happened five years ago I probably would have said no."

The Haunting of Helen's Bridge is due to be released in 2025.

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