Jamie Borthwick wants Jay Brown and Ben Mitchell to become the new Phil and Grant in 'EastEnders'.

Jamie Borthwick and Harry Reid

Jamie Borthwick and Harry Reid

The 21-year-old actor would like to see his alter-ego and on-screen surrogate brother - portrayed by Harry Reid - become the top dogs of Walford, just like the infamous siblings (played by Steve McFadden and Ross Kemp respectively), who ruled Albert Square until Grant's departure in 2006.

He explained: "I just think their [Jay and Ben's] potential is really strong and me and Harry Reid get on amazingly well and I think it would be upsetting if they didn't do the whole Phil and Grant brother thing.

"I think it's all there and it needs to be done."

And, although his loveable character, which he has played since 2006, has had a roller coaster of a year, Jamie has teased he has some "gritty" storylines coming up next year.

He said: "As far as I know [the future] is looking good. For me, I'm looking forward to getting gritty, should be good."

But, for now, Jamie is looking forward to seeing what Christmas brings for Jay - who is the surrogate son of Phil - and the Mitchells as tragedy rocks the family.

He told the Daily Mirror Newspaper: "There is a big Christmas for the Mitchells but Jay is not heavily involved. He takes part but it's not about him."


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