EastEnders has been without Ben Mitchell (formerly played by Harry Reid, newly cast as Max Bowden) for over a year now, but his return is imminent.
While viewers were tipped off to his arrival last month when the character was given a new actor once again, they did not know when he would next be seen.
Tonight’s final moments of the episode saw Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) speaking on her phone in a dark room to none other than Ben.
And in a harrowing voice she announced: “You’ve got to come home – your father is about to do something stupid!”
Viewers who have watched this week will know Phil (Steve McFadden) recently attempted to sell off his business The Arches by forging Ben’s signature.
The worried Kathy seemed to be attempting to convince Ben back onto Albert Square – but could it have the adverse effect to what she is hoping for?
As Ben is due to return from Spain after being chased out of the country by Aidan Maguire’s (Patrick Bergin) thugs, he may have a score to settle one way or another.
And this will no-doubt require his half of The Arches.
With Phil hell-bent on selling the business while Ben may need it, could viewers see a good old-fashioned Mitchell feud between father and son?
If so, how far will both Phil and Ben go to get what they want?
Ben’s return follows his exit last year which saw him get away with some money he stole.
The brand new version of Ben is supposedly returning with a “darker” twist on the characters.
And the new Ben actor Max recently spoke to What’s On TV to discuss his role.
He explained: “He’s coming back with a slightly broodier sense of self.
“He’s more aware of who he is, and he’s quite content with who he is. But he still wants to be more.
“Everything that’s happened to him in the past is affecting him now.
“I think he’s certainly darker; he’s potentially looking at Phil as an idol. So I suppose there are resemblances.”
But will this darker version of Ben be able to butt heads with Phil over The Arches?
Viewers will find out next week when Ben makes his triumphant return.
EastEnders continues Monday at 8pm on BBC One.
