Ben Mitchell was played by Harry Reid from 2014-2018 and it was announced earlier this week that Waterloo Road actor Max Bowden will be taking over the role.
Fans love Harry as Ben and have been upset about the recasting, however Harry has responded to it positively.
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He told the Metro: “The one message I did want to put out there is that it has been so touching that my fanbase has been so supportive. They’re upset because they think I’m upset but I can assure them that I’m not.”
He also said “Every actor puts their own slant on a character – what will happen is that the audience will fall in love with a new version on Ben and I hope that continues.”
“I come into this game to play different parts – not to play one for my whole life. It just means that the door is properly closed – but there are other doors.”
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EastEnders boss Kate Oates recently revealed the real reason Ben Mitchell was recast.
Max is the sixth actor to play Ben. Before Harry took over the role Ben was played by Josh Pascoe from 2010-2012. Charlie Jones played Ben from 2006-2010 and before Charlie he was played by Matthew Silver (1996-1998) and then Morgan Whittle (1999-2000)
Max, 24, who has also had roles on Doctors and Casualty said: “I’m so excited to be joining the cast of EastEnders and taking on the role of Ben Mitchell.
“I’ve always been a fan of the show so to be joining one of the most iconic families in soap is beyond exciting. I can’t wait to get started and see what’s in store for Ben.”
The last time we saw Ben he was heading on a ferry to France in January last year after stealing cash that Phil and his cohorts took in the heist.
He will be returning this year with daughter Lexi and her mum Lola Pearce.
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