In December 2016, Michelle Fowler returned to Albert Square after originally leaving in 1995, although now played by Jenna Russell. Susan Tully, the original actress, had turned down many previous offers to return to the show, having since giving up acting to work as a director. In 2019, Bobby Beale was reintroduced with new actor Clay Milner Russell taking over the role. In 2020, Peter Beale was recast for the seventh time with new actor Dayle Hudson playing the role. The Beales and Fowlers are one of EastEnders most iconic families and have been a major part of the show since its inception in 1985. They have been known for their ownership and occupation of some the Square's business including a café, launderette and a fruit stall which have become historical references to show. The Beales and Fowlers are characterized as a traditional "East-end family" and have been known for representing the show in some of its classical storylines which have brought the show some of its highest viewers which include their rivalry with the Watts, Mitchell and Branning families, shady publican Den Watts impregnating 16-year old Michelle Fowler leading to the birth of Vicki, Mark Fowler revealing his HIV diagnosis, Arthur Fowler's affair with Christine Hewitt and later being wrongly imprisoned for embezzlement, Ian being shot by a hitman hired by his wife Cindy, Mel Healy jilting Ian at the turn of the millennium, Pauline's death, Lucy Beale being murdered by her younger brother Bobby, and Kathy’s return after being presumed dead. Members of the Beale family currently in EastEnders as of 2023 include Bobby, Martin and Hope. Bianca’s adopted daughter Whitney Dean is also, technically, a member of the Beale family and is currently appearing. Additionally, several others may be considered Beales through marriage; Ian's mother and Pete's ex-wife Kathy, his half-brother Ben Mitchell, his niece Lexi Pearce and Martin's wives Sonia, and Stacey Slater are also among these. Lily Slater and Arthur Fowler have Pauline and Arthur’s son, Martin, as their adoptive father. As Peter Beale left the show in July 2022, his paternal half-brother Bobby is the only blood Beale to carry the surname on the show. Creation The Beale and Fowler family were one of the shows original family. The family was created by Tony Holland, who based the characters on his own family. He was involved in the casting of the family, approaching Wendy