Next week’s EastEnders promises explosive drama as Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden) makes a shocking return to Walford — and it couldn’t come at a worse time for his husband, Callum Highway (Tony Clay).

After more than a year apart, with Ben locked up in an American prison for fraud, Callum’s world has slowly begun to crumble. Grieving the recent death of his father, Jonno, Callum has found comfort in the arms of an unexpected person — his old friend Johnny Carter (Charlie Suff).

What started as emotional support after Jonno’s death spiraled into a full-blown affair, and now, with Ben back in London, Callum’s double life is about to explode in true Walford fashion.

Kathy Discovers the Truth

The drama kicks off on Monday when Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) accidentally catches Callum and Johnny sharing a kiss — despite Callum’s desperate plea for Johnny to stay away from the funeral to avoid suspicion.

Realising the gravity of what she’s witnessed, Kathy immediately calls a Mitchell family meeting. The clan bands together to confront Callum about his betrayal — but the confrontation takes a brutal turn when he throws their hypocrisy right back at them.

“The confrontation makes Callum realise who’s actually been there for him through all of this,” actor Tony Clay explained. “Everyone instantly takes Ben’s side when they hear he’s been unfaithful — but Callum’s been raising Lexi alone for months while Ben got himself thrown in prison.”

Ben Crashes the Funeral

Just as Callum resolves to tell Ben the truth after laying his father to rest, he’s blindsided by a shocking twist. Ben suddenly arrives at the funeral — transferred from an American to a UK prison after informing on a cellmate and being granted day release.

“Callum is in total shock — he can’t believe it,” Tony said. “He’s made a decision about his future with Johnny, and then boom! Ben’s return derails everything. Suddenly, he’s pulled right back into the chaos.”

While Johnny and Stuart Highway (Ricky Champ) scramble to cover for Callum, it’s clear that the truth can’t stay hidden for long.

A Torn Heart and a Furious Husband

As Callum grapples with guilt and confusion, he realises he can’t keep lying — and vows to tell Ben the truth. But how will Ben react when he learns of his husband’s betrayal?

Tony teased that the emotional fallout will test both characters like never before. “It’s exciting to explore where Ben and Callum’s relationship is right now,” he said. “They’ve been through so much together — ups, downs, heartbreak — and the fans have always supported them. But Ben’s arrival massively messes with Callum’s head, and in classic EastEnders style, nothing is simple.”

Ben Mitchell’s Future in Walford

Ben’s surprise return marks a guest stint for actor Max Bowden — but reports suggest it could pave the way for a full-time comeback. Given Ben’s history of revenge and emotional volatility, viewers are already speculating that his early release might unleash another wave of Mitchell mayhem.

Will Ben forgive Callum — or will this betrayal push him into a dangerous spiral of vengeance?

One thing’s for sure: Walford won’t be the same once Ben Mitchell is back behind the bar of The Vic — or back to breaking hearts.