Why it's time for EastEnders to rest the Mitchells' gangster storylines We need a break from guns, warehouses and dodgy jobs. By Laura Denby The Mitchells have been an iconic presence in EastEnders for decades, with Phil's son Ben teaming up with him in recent years to continue the 'family business'. Their enduring soap legacy is unwavering, but now these gangster exploits have become a tired tradition. With the duo showing no sign of slowing down, it's about time they were given a break from the same old antics. Every run-in with the "Old Bill" ends with Phil and Ben managing to outsmart them. Their trusty solicitor Ritchie Scott (Sian Webber) has had an impressive success rate in helping her notorious clients out of trouble, yet it only leads to them going round in circles.