EastEnders actors Danielle Harold and Max Bowden, known for their roles as Lola Pearce and Ben Mitchell, respectively, had a secret off-screen romance during their time on the BBC soap opera. Despite their characters sharing a child, their real-life relationship remained private, known only to their close associates. Danielle, 32, left the show in 2023 after her character’s emotional storyline ended with Lola’s death from a brain tumor. Max, 30, departed the following year when Ben was jailed for credit card fraud. Their relationship ended without the best of terms, evident by their decision to unfollow each other on Instagram, sparking curiosity among fans.
During their tenure on EastEnders, their characters navigated intense storylines, including Lola’s cancer diagnosis and Ben’s legal troubles. Max’s character was written out after Ben was jailed in America while seeking cancer treatment options for Lola. Danielle’s departure was poignant, leaving behind her on-screen husband Jay Brown and daughter Lexi. Max paid tribute to Danielle on Instagram, acknowledging her exceptional performance and the significant role she played in his journey on the show. Their off-screen relationship, though private, was cherished by their colleagues, who found them endearing together.
Post-EastEnders, Danielle and Max pursued other ventures. Danielle appeared on ITV’s “I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” alongside Sam Thompson, and participated in “Celebrity MasterChef” and “Celebrity Hunted.” Max, since his exit, has been involved in various projects. Their shared episode of “Celebrity Antiques Road Trip,” which aired on Valentine’s Day, showcased their camaraderie, with Danielle hinting at their affection and Max reflecting on their time together in intense storylines.
Sources close to the couple revealed their relationship ended on strained terms, with both parties experiencing strong emotions following the breakup. Their professional and personal ties intertwined over years, making the separation challenging. Public interest was piqued when they unfollowed each other on Instagram, leaving fans speculating about the cause of their rift.
Max’s dating history includes relationships with insurance executive Roisin Buckle, with whom he has a son, and briefly with EastEnders actress Shona McGarty. He also had a reported fling with Love Island’s Olivia Hawkins. These relationships highlight his active personal life outside of his professional commitments.
In conclusion, Danielle and Max’s journey from secret romance to professional separation underscores the complexities of blending personal and professional lives. Despite their breakup, both continue to explore new opportunities in the entertainment industry, showing resilience and dedication to their craft. Their time on EastEnders remains memorable, leaving a lasting impact on their careers and personal growth.
