BBC EastEnders star says ‘it’s that time’ as he exits soap and shares heartfelt statement

EastEnders star Max Bowden has spoken out for the first time about his exit from the BBC soap opera. The 29-year-old, who is the sixth actor to play Ben Mitchell, is set to leave the show later this year and his final story seemingly began earlier this week.

Max broke his silence on social media where he admitted it had been “one hell of a ride” on EastEnders, as he thanked fans for their support of his version of Ben. Several other actors have previously played the role.

Taking to Instagram, he wrote: “Well guys It’s that time! It’s been one hell of a ride! Thanks for taking Ben to your hearts and allowing my version into your lives. I had an amazing five years at @bbceastenders and learnt a hell of a lot about myself and the craft I love so dearly; it got me through some very hard personal times and I will be forever grateful!

READ MORE: Chef James Martin issues new statement and says ‘I want to say a few important words’

READ MORE: Stacey Solomon tells mum ‘I feel your pain’ as she shares her own family struggle

“I really will never be able to thank everybody for the support enough, because the fans of the show are so passionate, caring, and invested and it enables us as actors to want to keep going and always be better; so I really do from the bottom of my heart appreciate every single person who has sent any sort of positivity my way over the last five years – I love you all.”

He concluded his post by referencing the multiple times the character has been recast, by adding alongside a tick and heart emoji: “Ben Mitchell 6.0, over and out. Goodbye EE! I’ll miss you all. X.” Get the best user experience with WalesOnline’s Premium app on Apple or Android.

After posting several fans of the show sent their well wishes to the actor in the comments. “There won’t be a better Ben Mitchell,” wrote one person. A second echoed: “This guy should have never left his role as Ben Mitchell. Best actor Eastenders has ever had !!!” A third said: “The best Ben Mitchell there ever was!”

Another person wrote: “The Ben Mitchell the streets will never forget”. And a further person commented: “Best Ben Mitchell ever!!!! you icon brother”.

Following his EastEnders exit Max will be will be taking part in a theatre project for the 30th-anniversary production of Birdsong, which is based on Sebastian Faulks’ novel and tells the story of one man’s journey through an all-consuming love affair and into the horror of the World War I. The tour will start in September at Salisbury Playhouse, finishing in late November at Theatre Royal Bath.

Max Bowden has revealed his new role amid his exit from EastEnders, five years after portraying Walford bad boy Ben Mitchell.

Bowden’s departure from the BBC One soap was announced last year, with his character’s exit storyline currently taking place on screen.

Following his exit, Bowden will be joining the 30th anniversary tour of Birdsong as Jack Firebrace.

“I’m so excited to be collaborating with Original Theatre again on a project close to my heart,” Bowden said.

“Birdsong highlights the tragedy of war, yet the beauty of humanity simultaneously through strong relationships under extreme circumstances, and I can’t wait to bring Jack Firebrace to life under their guidance.”

Bowden previously starred in the 2016 tour of Birdsong, originally playing the role of Tipper.

Director Alastair Whatley said of Bowden re-joining the cast: “Max joined us to play the character of Tipper, a young soldier, in the 2016 tour of Birdsong and now, the best part of a decade later, returns to play the wonderful role of Jack Firebrace.

“I cannot wait to get back in the rehearsal room with Max to explore one of Sebastian’s most unforgettable characters.”

In scenes that aired this week, Ben has been arrested for fraud after an international warrant was put out for his arrest. Scenes are yet to play out to see what happens to Ben, but Bowden has since issued a heartfelt message to his fans.

Following Tuesday night’s episode, Bowden wrote: “Well guys. It’s that time! It’s been one hell of a ride! Thanks for taking Ben to your hearts and allowing my version into your lives.

“I had an amazing five years at @bbceastenders and learnt a hell of a lot about myself and the craft I love so dearly; it got me through some very hard personal times and I will be forever grateful!”