BBC One viewers were left reeling this week following Stevie Mitchell’s dramatic departure from EastEnders, a storyline that perfectly balanced high emotion with classic cockney crime capers. The newcomer found himself in a precarious position, forced to unburden himself of his darkest secrets to his estranged son, Billy Mitchell. The revelation concerning the death of Billy’s mother, Val, proved a step too far for the market stall holder, who struggled to forgive years of abandonment and deceit. However, in true Mitchell fashion, Stevie refused to leave quietly, orchestrating a final act of redemption that was as cheeky as it was touching.

Before bidding a final adieu to Big Mo with a kiss, Stevie managed to swipe Phil Mitchell’s car, flogging the vehicle to secure a final nest egg for his family. In a tear-jerking twist, he begged Billy for one last moment with his grandchildren, Will and Janet, while secretly leaving the proceeds of the car theft in an envelope for Billy to discover later. The discovery of the cash, accompanied by a nostalgic photograph of Stevie and his brother Charlie, left Billy in tears, whilst Stevie was last seen chuckling in a cab as he watched Phil lose his temper over the missing motor.

Fans Clamour for Ford’s Return

The exit has sparked a flurry of activity on social media, with the show’s faithful taking to X to express their dismay at losing such a dynamic character. Viewers have been petitioning soap insiders for clarity on whether this truly is the end for Alan Ford’s stint in Walford. Many praised the 86-year-old actor, known for his grit in Guy Ritchie films like Snatch, for bringing a unique energy to the cast. Despite the fan fervour and pleas for even a cameo return, there is currently no official word on Ford reprising the role, suggesting that for now, the square has seen the last of Stevie Mitchell.

A Gritty Reimagining of a Legend

While television audiences say goodbye to one anti-hero, cinema-goers are preparing for a darker take on another. The first trailer for A24’s upcoming historical epic, The Death of Robin Hood, has dropped, showcasing Hugh Jackman in a role that strips away the swashbuckling charm usually associated with the outlaw. Directed by Michael Sarnoski, the filmmaker behind Pig, this iteration promises a visceral, uncompromising look at the man behind the myth. Far from the merry adventures often depicted, this narrative focuses on a battle-worn figure grappling with a life defined by crime and murder, now offered a chance at salvation after a brutal near-death experience.

Wolverine with a Bow

The film’s aesthetic has already drawn favourable comparisons to visually stunning works like Robert Eggers’ The Northman and David Lowery’s The Green Knight, proving that art-house sensibilities can blend seamlessly with blockbuster action. Sarnoski’s script appears to deconstruct the legend, exploring how it feels to be a figure whose reputation is entirely at odds with their reality. The reception online has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans drawing parallels between this rugged, arrow-slinging outlaw and Jackman’s most famous role. Enthusiasts are already dubbing the character “Wolverine with a bow,” praising the studio for continuing to produce original, visually arresting cinema in an era often dominated by franchise fatigue.