EastEnders fans are puzzled by the disappearance of Billy Mitchell’s estranged father, Stevie, played by Alan Ford.
Hollywood actor Ford made his first appearance at the funeral of Aunt Sal Martin in January. Fans were expecting a bigger role for the 85-year-old actor, known for his work in films such as Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.
Billy was placed in care at the age of ten after Stevie took sole custody of his brother Charlie, and they haven't seen each other in over 25 years.
Alan expressed his excitement about playing a character closer to his age in the popular television series.
Executive producer Chris Clenshaw welcomed Alan Ford to the cast and praised his talent.
He made his first appearance at Aunt Sal's funeral (Picture: BBC) Phil warned Stevie to stay away from Billy (Picture: BBC) Billy's complicated childhood and the events that led him to grow up in care remain unknown to viewers.
The event was overshadowed by Sam Mitchell demanding inheritance money from her brother and eventually fleeing the square after exposing his affair with Emma Harding.
One viewer on X/Twitter questioned whether Alan Ford's character, Stevie Mitchell, was meant to make a return, given his brief appearance.
Another on Reddit wondered when he would show up again, given the significance of casting an actor like Alan Ford.
They also pondered the lack of elderly characters in the show and speculated that his return might coincide with the London Marathon episodes or Lola’s anniversary.
Honey and Jay will participate in the London Marathon (Picture: BBC)
Another fan speculated that Stevie might return in scenes set at the London Marathon or Lola’s anniversary, as it had been hinted that he would make a comeback at some point.
Honey Mitchell and Jamie Borthwick will be taking on the challenge in upcoming scenes after Lola Pearce surprised the Mitchell’s with a video revealing that she had signed a number of family members up.
After her passing, characters in the show will run in her memory during the marathon.
However, in actuality, performers Emma Barton and Jamie Borthwick will be participating in the marathon and have decided to support their own meaningful causes. Jay Brown (Emma Barton and Where is he?) are both set to take on the challenge in upcoming scenes after Lola Pearce surprised the Mitchell’s with a video revealing that she had signed a number of family members up.
Lola sadly lost her battle with a brain tumour last year, so the characters will be running in memory of her.
However, in real life, actors Emma Barton and Jamie Borthwick will actually be running the marathon, and have chosen to support their own causes close to their hearts.
