EastEnders actor Max Bowden has announced that he is taking a break from Instagram, prompting concern from fans.
Taking to his Instagram Stories, the actor wrote: "Taking a little break from Instagram. See so much s*** on here need a break. Love ya x."
Fans shared the message on Twitter, expressing their concern for the 27-year-old soap star who has played Ben Mitchell since 2019.
One tweeted: "Was so sad to see this when woke up poor @MaxBowden just wish people would leave him alone he's human and has feelings like everyone else love this boy loads and loads shame ur havin to do this love ya too x."
While another commented: "Gentle reminder that these actors are human. Sometimes the best thing we can do is leave them alone and respect their privacy. They give us so much, let’s give them space and respect. # EastEnders."
A third wrote: "There is much love here for you @MaxBowden Pls don't leave social media <3 #Ballum."
"@MaxBowden hope you’re okay," another commented.
One tweeted: "I know I don’t speak for the fandom but I think we can all agree hugs for Max #MaxBowden."
It comes after Max was spotted leaving co-star Shona McGarty's home amid rumours a relationship between the pair is blossoming last month.
Max split from his pregnant girlfriend earlier this year and now reportedly spends a lot of time at Shona's £650,000 house.
A source told the Sun on Sunday: "They spend as much time together as they can. Most nights or mornings Max is seen entering or leaving Shona’s home. He wears the same clothes most days.
"They have tried to keep their relationship a secret and they drive into the EastEnders set separately, but anybody who sees them together can see how they feel about each other."
Shona, who plays Whitney Dean in the long-running programme, has been described as "a shoulder for him to cry on" following Max's break-up with insurance executive Roisin Buckle.
The former couple are said to have remained friends and plan to co-parent together.
