But the Ben Mitchell most of us remember with a fond, nostalgic sigh is the one played by Harry Reid. He swanned onto the Square in 2014 with a big, goofy grin, chunky frames, and the energy of a golden retriever who’s just discovered a tennis ball. Harry’s Ben was a softie. He cried a lot, fancied men, and got thrown into a canal—all while looking like he’d just eaten a whole packet of Hobnobs.
Harry Reid made Ben loveable. He was the sort of lad you’d want to go for a pint with, even if you knew he’d accidentally start a fight with a pensioner or get his car keyed. It was relatable chaos. You can still picture him running around Walford in his horrible shirts, trying to be a hardman but failing miserably, like a toddler wearing dad’s shoes.
EastEnders' Ben Mitchell to return played by Waterloo Road actor Max Bowden
The Current Boss: Max Bowden’s Angry Era
Of course, that soft, bumbling Ben didn’t last. In 2019, Max Bowden took over, and the character did a full 180. Suddenly, Ben had muscles, a shaved head, and the personality of a wasp that’s been trapped in a car window. Max’s Ben is intense. He’s always growling, shouting, or throwing a punch. Watching him is like trying to calm down a hyperactive dog that’s had too much coffee.
Look, Max Bowden is a brilliant actor. He’s won awards for it. But his Ben is the kind of bloke you’d cross the street to avoid. He reminds me of that one friend who says “I’m fine” but is clearly seething about something you said three years ago. You love him, but you also need a nap after hanging out with him.
And then, just when you thought you had him figured out, Max Bowden announced his departure from the role in 2026. So now, we’re back to square one, waiting for the third or fourth or fifth Ben Mitchell. It’s like a revolving door at a nightclub, but instead of bouncers, it’s just a very stressed-out young man crying on the cobbles.
EastEnders fans 'work out' Ben Mitchell 'dramatic' return after
