What happened to Ben and Paul, who were last seen on screen heading out partying for the night together, has not yet been revealed.
According to reports, the truth will be unveiled in coming episodes and it looks set to be a very sad time for Albert Square.
In tonight's episode, Ben returned to the Square, unaware of the tragedy that had happened.
The news was broken to Ben Mitchell that his lover had passed and what ensued was emotional scenes for both the Mitchell and Coker family.
But one member of the Mitchell clan is coming under serious fire for his handling of the sensitive situation, telling a loved one that their partner has passed. In breaking the news to his son, Phil Mitchell was seen telling Ben "Your friend, he’s dead" to which Ben acted accordingly, screaming "My friend? After everything!".
Even though Paul had died, Phil's use of the word friend showed he still wasn't comfortable with his son's sexuality which left Twitter users absolutely RAGING.
#Phil calling Paul Ben's "friend" was typical of his macho ways, glad his stance softened towards the end of the episode #Eastenders.
— Raphael Wilson (@Raphsreality) July 19, 2016
I'm crying ? fucking bawling my eyes out tbh. Phil calling Paul a friend was like a double whammy for poor Ben. #eastenders — Jenn (@JennLaFleur) July 19, 2016
"Your friend" Sad times. #Eastenders
— Ms Chanandler Bong (@beautifulpainxo) July 19, 2016
Oh Ben I cried watchin him break down and Phil call Paul his 'friend' was shocking but left to the break down that was needed #eastenders — RobRon*SumBay (@Malec_Hunters) July 19, 2016
Oh did they have to have Phil be a prick even wen giving ben the bad news "your friend" #eastenders
— john foley (@behan116) July 19, 2016
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