EastEnders Fans Demand Permanent Return of Ben Mitchell and Stuart Highway

Fans of the long-running British soap opera EastEnders are expressing strong desires for the permanent return of characters Ben Mitchell and Stuart Highway, following their dramatic appearances on the episode aired on October 6, 2023. The episode featured Ben, played by Max Bowden, making a surprise return from prison, where he is currently serving time for credit card fraud. His reappearance sent shockwaves through the Square, particularly for Callum Highway, portrayed by Tony Clay, who was grappling with the fallout from an affair.

In this gripping episode, viewers witnessed Ben in a police cell, with photographs of his husband Callum pinned on the wall, clearly indicating his focus on their troubled relationship. As Callum dealt with the emotional weight of his father’s funeral, he was supported by his lover, Johnny Carter (played by Charlie Suff). The affair between Callum and Johnny became public when the two shared a kiss at The Queen Vic, right in front of Ben’s mother, Kathy Beale (played by Gillian Taylforth).

As tensions rose, Callum attempted to justify his infidelity, blaming it on Ben’s imprisonment. Meanwhile, Stuart, played by Ricky Champ, returned to the scene in a taxi, adding to the emotional chaos. Callum’s confession about his affair prompted a mix of teasing and concern from Stuart, who was protective of his brother. The episode culminated in an unexpected moment when Ben arrived at the graveside, grinning, which left Callum visibly shocked.

While both characters are slated for a brief return—Ben is on day release from prison and Stuart is leading a quieter life away from Walford with his wife, Raine Highway (played by Tanya Franks)—the fan response has been overwhelmingly positive. Since their departure in August 2022, when Stuart and Raine left Walford for a new life, viewers have been eager for their return. Ben’s last exit came in March 2024 after his arrest in America.

Social media platforms have been abuzz with fans calling for the characters to become permanent fixtures once again. One fan expressed their joy on X, saying, “SO GLAD MAX IS BACK EVEN IF IT IS JUST FOR A SHORT STINT, ONE EASTENDERS BEST ACTORS BY FAR!! bring him back permanently.” Others echoed similar sentiments, with comments like, “Bring Ben back for good” and “Please let Stuart stay @bbceastenders #EastEnders.”

As the drama unfolds, EastEnders continues to air from Monday to Thursday on BBC One and through the iPlayer platform. The emotional stakes and complex relationships depicted in the show resonate deeply with its audience, keeping fans engaged and invested in the lives of their favorite characters.