EastEnders Star Max Bowden to Return as Ben Mitchell Two Years After Exit

Eastenders Star Max Bowden To Return As Ben Mitchell Two Years After Exit

EastEnders legend Max Bowden is making a shock return to Albert Square just two years after his dramatic axe from the soap. And we didn’t see this one coming.

The 29-year-old actor, who played Ben from 2019 to 2024, is reportedly returning for a guest stint, according to The Sun. It’s a big deal—his original exit wasn’t exactly smooth sailing, with rumors swirling about behind-the-scenes drama and clashes with former show bosses.

But now, with a fresh face running the show—executive producer Ben Wadey—Max is getting a second chance. And get this: Wadey even went to see Bowden in his Midnight Cowboy stage show before personally offering him the gig. Talk about a plot twist.

“Max needed time away,” a source told The Sun. “He’s done a lot of growing and now’s the perfect time to bring Ben back for a fresh arc.”

Fans on social media are split—some can’t wait to see Bowden back in action, while others are crossing their fingers that the storyline doesn’t just rehash old drama. You know EastEnders—there’s always a secret, a slap, or a surprise waiting.

Let’s not forget, Max’s portrayal of Ben brought serious emotional weight to the character—dealing with trauma, sexuality, and family battles in the grittiest Walford way possible. If his return delivers even half the fireworks of his earlier run, we’re in for a ride.

No word yet from the BBC on exactly when we’ll see Ben back on our screens, but filming is expected to kick off later this year. So, keep your popcorn close.

Now who’s next? Sharon with another wedding? Phil with another secret son? One thing’s for sure: Walford’s never quiet for long.