The Mitchell legacy in EastEnders could soon welcome back one of its most iconic and complicated members, as Max Bowden is tipped to return to Albert Square as Ben Mitchell. After stepping away from the soap last year citing personal reasons and burnout, new reports suggest that Bowden is gearing up for a guest comeback — with whispers of a possible full-time reinstatement in the not-too-distant future.

Ben Mitchell, a character that’s seen multiple portrayals over the years, left Walford in dramatic fashion when he was extradited to the United States on charges of credit card fraud. His departure left a significant gap in both the Mitchell family and the wider Square, with unfinished business and unresolved tensions still lingering in his wake.

Now, according to The Sun, EastEnders’ new executive producer Ben Wadey, who has recently taken over from Chris Clenshaw, is reportedly aiming to reinvigorate the soap with some familiar — and beloved — faces. Ben Mitchell is said to be high on his list. A source close to production revealed that the return of Max Bowden is now in motion, with filming expected to commence later this year. If the guest appearance is successful, fans might see Ben back in a more permanent capacity.

The BBC and EastEnders have not officially confirmed the news, and when asked for comment, they declined. However, this hasn’t stopped fans from speculating wildly online, with many eager to see what kind of story arc Ben Mitchell might be involved in next — especially given the unresolved legal drama and the fallout with the Mitchell clan.

Bowden himself has been open about the toll the role took on him. When he exited the show in 2023, he described the decision as a necessary one for his wellbeing. Reflecting on his time on EastEnders, Bowden revealed the immense pressure that came with the job. “I did nearly six hundred episodes in five years,” he shared, highlighting the intensity and emotional labor that came with portraying such a central, conflicted character.

“It was time for a rest,” Bowden explained. “The Max sat in front of you today was kind of a ghost.” He acknowledged both the physical and emotional exhaustion he faced, and how stepping away was necessary to recover his mental health and reconnect with himself — and with fatherhood. “I needed to go work on me,” he added, emphasizing the importance of healing and focusing on being present in his personal life.

Ben Mitchell’s character journey has been one of the most complex in EastEnders history. From childhood trauma and family dysfunction to his struggles with sexuality, criminal activity, and turbulent relationships, Ben has been through emotional wringers that made him one of the most nuanced personalities on the show. Max Bowden’s portrayal has been widely praised, particularly during tough storylines dealing with trauma, grief, and abuse.

A return could signal another emotionally charged chapter for Ben. With the Mitchell family currently embroiled in multiple explosive plotlines — including Nicola Mitchell’s arrest and Harry’s erratic behavior — his comeback could send further shockwaves through an already volatile household. There’s also speculation that Ben might come back seeking redemption, revenge, or maybe even a fresh start with his daughter Lexi or former partners.

Interestingly, Bowden isn’t the only fan-favorite rumored to be on the brink of a comeback. Reports also hint that Jake Wood might reprise his role as Max Branning, another long-running and trouble-prone character who last appeared in 2021. If both returns come to fruition, EastEnders could be poised for a major shift, as old tensions resurface and new alliances take shape.

For now, fans will have to wait for an official announcement, but the signs point strongly toward Max Bowden stepping back into Ben Mitchell’s shoes. Whether he comes back for closure, chaos, or something in between, one thing’s for certain — his return will stir the pot in Walford like never before.

As EastEnders gears up for a dramatic summer, the return of one of its most explosive characters might be just what the Square needs to remind everyone: no matter how far you run, the past always catches up in Albert Square.