‘EastEnders’ actor Harry Reid has spoken out about the homophobic comments his character Ben Mitchell’s gay kiss attracted, admitting he is upset about the negative response.
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Viewers saw Ben lock lips with newcomer Paul Coker - played by Jonny Labey - on Monday (2 June) night’s episode, as the teen continued to struggle with his sexuality.
However, some fans took to Twitter bemoaning the kiss, in a sad display of homophobia.
Ben and Paul kissed on Monday's 'EastEnders'
Harry has now broken his silence on the issue, taking to Instagram to challenge the bigots.
Posting a picture of Ronnie Kray, he wrote: “It's upsetting to read the negative tweets about the gay kiss in last night's episode of @bbceastenders.
"I only want to ask one question. Would you of called Ronnie Kray disgusting? #whatwouldronniesay [sic].
"Note: I'm not biting, it just needed pointing out;)," he added.
Many fans rallied against the negative tweets after the episode aired, and ‘EastEnders’ executive producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins also added that he was “very very sad” about the response.
The storyline between Ben and Paul is set cause complications, as the young Mitchell is currently in a relationship with Abi Branning.
Harry Reid plays Ben Mitchell
The character was previously openly gay before he was sent to prison for murdering Heather Trott.
Since being released, he has claimed to be straight, but has secretly been harbouring desires for other men, even kissing adoptive brother Jay.