EastEnders Harry Reid reveals bosses only told him he'd been axed as Ben Mitchell a week before role was recast
The TV star, who played the part between 2014 – 2018, revealed he was disappointed by the news but not upset.
Speaking to Digital Spy, Harry, 26, revealed he had previously been told his character would never be recast.
But a week before the change was announced, he was told that new EastEnders actor Max Bowden would be taking over, becoming the sixth Ben Mitchell in the show.
He said: “They told me that they were going to recast him about a week before it was announced.
“To be honest, I was shocked because I didn't expect that they were going to recast the role. I was told that they weren't going to recast.
"But at the same time, it didn't upset me, which is what a lot of the fans are saying.
"One particular fan called Elizabeth, who's supported me a lot, posted, 'I hate to think that Harry will be sat there upset about it.' I'm not and that's what I want people to understand.”
The pragmatic star explained that although he was disappointed by the news it was it was the nature of the business, calling the acting industry “very cut-throat”.
He said: “I've said before that I didn't come into this industry to play one part, because I love exploring different characters' lives and personalities.
"All it's done is closed that door fully, whereas before it was half open. But doors do close and then other ones open.”
Describing the change as “frustrating” he went on to say he still loved playing the part of Ben, calling the him “one of the most exciting characters” on the Square.
Despite being disappointed with the recasting, Harry went on to wish his successor well for the future.
He said: “Max has landed a great part and I wish him the best of luck, because I'm sure he'll have a lot of fun with it."
The former EastEnders actor also revealed that new boss Kate Oates had been in touch with him before it was announced.
He told Digital Spy: “She explained that the writers wanted to take Ben in a new direction and she was lovely.
“When I heard that Kate was coming into EastEnders, I knew that she was going to be brilliant because it's perfect for her style.
“There is no ill-feeling in this whatsoever from me towards EastEnders or Kate. I've still got lots of friends there and a lot of love for that place.
“I'm very proud to be able to say that I was part of the Mitchell and Beale family.”
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