Table of Contents
- Ben Mitchell's Return
- Callum's Affair
- Funeral Drama
- Confrontation with Callum
- Ben Explains His Situation
- Will Callum Confess?
THIS marks the moment EastEnders icon Ben Mitchell makes a surprising return to Walford after actor Max Bowden was let go from the soap.
The character was last seen 18 months ago when he was imprisoned in America on fraud charges.


As The Sun exclusively reported earlier this year, he is back for a brief appearance, and now the first look is here.
In a clip shared online, Ben is seen back in a British prison cell, holding a cross necklace and telling the prison guard, “You took your time.”
Since Ben's departure, life in Walford has progressed – including his husband Callum.
Viewers are aware that Callum has developed feelings for Johnny Carter, and they have begun a full-blown affair, confident that Ben is far from them.
However, with Callum’s father Jonno deceased, Ben uses this as an opportunity to get a day release for the funeral and makes a surprise appearance next week.
On the day of Jonno’s funeral, Kathy gathers the rest of the Mitchell family to support Callum.
Callum urges Johnny to stay away from the funeral to avoid drawing attention, and they share a kiss, unaware that Kathy has witnessed them.
At the café, Kathy informs the Mitchells about Callum’s actions, leading to a shocked reaction as they learn of his betrayal.
Phil, Kathy, Billy, Honey, Ian, and Harvey confront Callum together, but he retaliates with some harsh truths before leaving to find Johnny, where he expresses his seriousness about their relationship and wants him to attend the funeral.
Stuart arrives, having been convinced by Johnny, while Kathy and the rest of the Mitchells agree to keep the truth from Ben, on the condition that Callum tells Ben and Lexi himself after the funeral.
Callum agrees, but he is taken aback when Ben shows up at the funeral unexpectedly.
Callum is astonished as Ben stands by him at the graveside, while Johnny and Stuart work diligently to keep the truth hidden.
Back in Walford, Phil and Kathy are delighted to see Ben, who explains that he was transferred to a UK prison for turning informant on his cellmate and was granted release for the funeral. However, they are both preoccupied with Callum’s infidelity.
In The Vic, Johnny attempts to persuade Callum to keep their relationship a secret, but Callum believes he must come clean to Ben.
Will he reveal everything, and how will Ben react to the news?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What led to Ben Mitchell's return to Walford?
Ben returns after being granted a day release from prison to attend his father-in-law's funeral.
2. How has Callum's life changed since Ben left?
Callum has started a romantic relationship with Johnny Carter, which has led to infidelity.
3. What happens at Jonno's funeral?
During the funeral, tensions rise as Callum's affair is revealed, leading to confrontations with family members.
4. Will Callum confess to Ben about his affair?
It remains uncertain whether Callum will confess to Ben, as he struggles with his feelings and the consequences of his actions.