EastEnders star Max Bowden has addressed fan confusion over his character Ben Mitchell's return, which some have labelled a 'plot hole'. Bowden, who reprises the role for a brief stint alongside Ricky Champ as Stuart Highway, explained that Ben is extradited on day release from a US prison to attend the funeral of his father-in-law, Jonno Highway.
Ben has been incarcerated in America for 18 months after being arrested for credit card fraud. Fans questioned the plausibility of a US prisoner being flown to the UK for a funeral, with one joking: 'I'm sure American prisons are going to fly their prisoners overseas for a funeral.' Another suggested a more logical explanation: 'He’s probably been transferred to a UK prison.'
Appearing on ITV's This Morning, Bowden clarified: 'He’s managed to get a transfer from the US and he comes back for a brief stint... He’s essentially extradited on a day release and he comes back for Callum’s dad’s funeral!' The funeral will see Callum Highway (Tony Clay) face his husband Ben after recently cheating on him.
Behind-the-scenes photos show a tense confrontation at the graveside between the characters. Bowden is currently promoting his West End role in Murder at Midnight, alongside former Coronation Street star Katie McGlynn and Corrie legend Susie Blake.
