EastEnders’ Ben Mitchell unrecognisable as he celebrates birthday – and reveals his real age
FORMER Ben Mitchell actor Harry Reid looks unrecognisable from his days on EastEnders as he celebrates a milestone birthday.
The star, who is one of several people to play Phil Mitchell’s wayward son, posted about his anniversary online today.
The soap star is turning 31 and is almost unrecognisable from his Albert Square days.
Harry sported rugged facial hair in recent snaps, swapping his shorter hair and glasses usually shown in the show, for a longer style.
He portrayed Ben Mitchell in the BBC One soap opera for four years, taking over the role of Ben in 2014 when Phil found out his son had been released from prison for a whole month before realising.
In 2018 Harry left the soap and Max Bowden took on the role which made him the sixth actor to play the famous character.
Announcing the news on Instagram of his departure, the actor said at the time: “Hello everyone, just a quick message. I wanted to say a few words because my last episode of EastEnders is going on air in 10 minutes.
“I just wanted to say thank you really, thank you to everyone who’s been supporting me during my time on EastEnders.
“To the fan groups and all the collages they’ve done and the videos. You know everyone on here on Instagram and Twitter – on all social media that’s really documented my time on there and I really appreciate it.”
After leaving the show, the star went on to play Leonard Vole in the stage production of Witness for the Prosecution.
In 2019, Harry then appeared on E4’s Celebrity Coach Trip.
Despite leaving the show several years ago, fans still praise his depiction of Ben, especially as he played alongside Jonny Labey who portrayed Ben’s first ever love, Paul Coker.
After sharing his memories of working alongside Jonny, fans took to social media to share their thoughts.
With one stating: “Wish you were both still in EastEnders, it’s just not the same now”.
A second said: “I’m not crying, you’re crying! I miss Ben and Paul, my heart hurt watching this.”