EastEnders ‘axed’ Ben Mitchell star’s next job ‘exposed’ as exit from BBC soap looms
EXCLUSIVE: EastEnders star Max Bowden, who plays Ben Mitchell, has been reportedly ‘axed’ from the soap after five years - but the actor’s next job has now been ‘exposed’
EastEnders star Max Bowden could be set for a stint on a huge reality show, a PR expert has claimed
The actor, 29, best known for playing Ben Mitchell on the long-running show – making his debut in 2019. During his stint, he’s had some big storylines – including the character’s horrific rape ordeal in 2022.
He was also a part of Lola Pearce’s heartbreaking brain tumour storyline. The soap icon, played by Danielle Harold, sadly died last year. Following her death, Ben struggled to cope and developed an eating disorder, bulimia.
Max was the sixth actor to play Ben – and became a hit with viewers since his first appearance. So much so, that he’s even scooped a few gongs for his portrayal.
However, in December it was reported that Max will be bowing out of the programme. A source close to Max told Daily Star how the actor will leave the show indefinitely with his final scenes set to air in the coming weeks.
It was then claimed that Max’s private life hitting the headlines was a concern for the execs of the show. An insider told The Sun: “There has been a lot of noise around him for a bit too long and that can take away from the drama on the show.”
But now, an expert has claimed how Max could be set for a stint in the world of reality TV in a bid to “help shape the way the public perceives him.” And it seems the upcoming Celebrity Big Brother is a great fit.
Speaking exclusively to Daily Star, Dom Aldworth, Head of Brand Marketing at Slingo noted how a “different path” Max could take it trying out reality TV. Dom explained: “Max is frequently making headlines with the public seemingly investing in his personal life, so it is also possible reality TV bosses have their eye on the actor.”
The expert went on: “Celebrity Big Brother returns this year and both Bowden and the show could benefit from him being a contestant. If Bowden wants to take a break from acting, a reality TV show could be a great chance for him to establish himself as a celebrity and could also help him shape the way the public perceives him.”
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Celebrity Big Brother last aired in its former home on Channel 5, with soap star Ryan Thomas pipping late Cheers actress Kirstie Alley to the crown. The broadcaster called time on the programme shortly afterwards – along with the ‘civilian’ version – citing a fall in viewing figures and the rise of modern reality shows such as Love Island.
Last year, however, ITV announced it would revive both editions of the show, with the ‘civilian’ format achieving moderate success on its return in October – fronted by new hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best. Now, the celebrity offering is set to be given a new lease of life as it hits screens in the spring.
