EastEnders star Michelle Gayle barely seems to have aged a day, despite appearing in the popular BBC One soap an incredible three decades ago.
London-born actress Michelle famously portrayed Hattie Tavernier from 1990 to 1993 and is now 53 years old. The Taverniers were a landmark family in EastEnders as they were the first collective black family to join the soap at the same time.
She was a fan favourite in Albert Square, captivating audiences with her portrayal of the strong-willed Hattie, Ian Beale's PA, who navigated through intense storylines involving miscarriage and sexual harassment before her departure from the show.
Michelle was seen looking very glam as she attended The Spring Ball in London, in aid of The Melissa Bell Foundation and Style For Stroke on Wednesday, 15 May.
The star wore red lipstick and gold earrings, and looked amazing in a black satin dress which she teamed with a smart black bag, as she posed against a stunning floral display.
Michelle had previously set X, formerly Twitter, alight with her age-defying snaps, when fans made comments such as: "I've literally just had to google how old you are......as you look about 20! ! You look amazing! ! X," and, "There is no way you're in the 50+ bracket! ! My goodness."
The actress went on to enjoy musical success during the 1990s when she achieved seven top 40 singles in the UK Singles Chart, including Sweetness and Do You Know. She also released two top 40 albums, before parting ways with her record company in 1997.
Michelle returned to TV, guest starring in both Doctors and Holby City, before starring in Channel 5's short-lived soap Family Affairs in 2005. She's also featured in numerous reality TV shows, including ITV's Reborn In The USA, competing against the likes of 80s popstars Sonia and Tony Hadley, and Channel 4's The Games.
She became a guest panellist for ITV's Loose Women in 2007 and branched out as an author in 2011, releasing her first novel titled Pride and Premiership.
And last year, Michelle joined former Eternal pop star Louise Redknapp live on stage at her show in London, to belt out Sweetness for the adoring crowd.
She was married to ex-professional footballer Mark Bright for ten years, and they share a son, Isaiah, together. Michelle also has one other son, Luke.
