The first photos of the new Ben Mitchell have been revealed by the BBC alongside the news that he will return to EastEnders later this year.
Credit: BBCFollowing his imprisonment for killing Heather Trott in August 2012, Ben is making his way back to Albert Square to settle some unfinished business with many of the residents of Walford, including his estranged father Phil, ex-girlfriend Lola, daughter Lexi and Heather's best friend, Shirley.
Phil was shocked earlier this year to discover that his son had been released early from prison, but his efforts to track Ben were futile.
Credit: BBCBest friend Jay was less surprised as it was revealed to viewers he had been in contact with him the whole time.
Newcomer Harry Reid is to step into the role of Ben and said: “I'm very excited to be joining EastEnders – not only because it's a great show but also to be playing Ben, a character that is so renowned and from such an iconic family. I'm looking forward to getting started and working closely with the legendary Steve McFadden. I can't wait to become a fully-fledged Mitchell.”
Credit: BBCMeanwhile, Executive Producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins is also excited to get Harry onboard: “Ben’s half-Beale and half-Mitchell and Harry perfectly encapsulates both the Mitchell danger and Beale heart that make Ben such a complex character. Ben’s return to the Square is going to have big repercussions for his family, his friends – and his enemies. Plus a few residents he hasn’t even met yet...”.
EastEnders continues tonight at 8pm on BBC One.
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