'EastEnders' character Ben Mitchell is heading for trouble with new villain Gavin Sullivan.

Harry Reid as Ben Mitchell with dad Phil

Harry Reid as Ben Mitchell with dad Phil

Actor Harry Reid has revealed his alter ego will fall under his former stepdad Gavin's evil spell now he is involved in the tense situation involving his former carer and his mother Kathy (Gillian Taylforth).

Gavin (Paul Nicholas) has kidnapped Ben's biological dad Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) in a bid to extort cash from the Mitchell family but Ben may find himself siding with his stepfather.

Harry said: "We have to remember he was Ben's stepdad and father figure for years. He grew up with him and there will be a lot of love there.

"Ben came back a happy child, so you think Gavin is a perfect dad as he helped create that kid. There's a real connection there between them, having spent time together and loved each other. There's a real connection there between them, having spent time together and loved each other. But essentially it's the fact his mum did this to him than Gavin, as Gavin is just a stepfather."

However, Harry believes Ben's true loyalty will lie with Phil because they are true blood, despite the often strained father/son relationship.

Speaking to website SoapSquawk, he added: "I think there are different levels. Ben finds Gavin more understanding than Phil - (although) everyone is! But a young lad in his position seeks his father's love and respect and wants his dad to think, 'That's my boy.' But being on the Square he is in a macho family; it's all about who is the top dog. He is always seeking his dad's respect and love. But when it comes to it he loves Phil more, because he is his actual dad ... They have both made mistakes but he would swing to Phil's side more."