An EastEnders icon: Ben Mitchell

Is Ben Mitchell the most iconic character in EastEnders history?

He's certainly one of the most popular, and he's been at the heart of some of the soap's most dramatic storylines over the years. From his troubled childhood to his coming out as gay, Ben has always been a complex and fascinating character.

Ben was born in 1986 to Kathy Beale and Phil Mitchell. His early life was marred by tragedy and neglect.

In 1992, his mother Kathy left Walford, and Ben was left in the care of his abusive father, Phil. Ben was often beaten and bullied by Phil, and he developed a deep-seated hatred for him.

In 2000, Ben came out as gay to his father. Phil was furious, and he disowned Ben. Ben was devastated, and he left Walford to live with his mother in Spain.

Ben returned to Walford in 2006, and he has been a central character in the soap ever since. He has been involved in a number of high-profile storylines, including the murder of Heather Trott and the trial of Aidan Maguire.

Ben is a complex and flawed character, but he is also a survivor. He has overcome adversity time and time again, and he has become one of the most popular characters in EastEnders history.

• Fascinating personality
• Complex backstory
• Compelling storylines
• A true EastEnders icon