Archie Mitchell

Name: Archie Mitchell
First Appeared: 8th July 2008
Last Appeared: 5th September 2022
Played by: Larry Lamb

Was there ever a character more hated than Archie Mitchell?

Walford’s notorious bad boy brought drama, deceit, and a whole lot of tension to Albert Square. Archie’s entrance into the chaotic world of EastEnders was anything but quiet, shaking up the lives of his family and everyone around him. With his charming yet sinister demeanour, Archie became a central figure in some of the most explosive storylines the Square had ever seen.

Archie Mitchell was the father of Ronnie and Roxy Mitchell, and his relationship with his daughters was tumultuous, to say the least. His manipulative nature and dark past often put him at odds with Ronnie, especially when it came to secrets involving her daughter Danielle. Archie’s return to Walford after years of estrangement was marked by his attempt to control his daughters’ lives, leading to conflicts that had viewers on the edge of their seats. Ronnie, in particular, found herself constantly battling her father’s manipulations, struggling between wanting his approval and trying to break free from his grasp.

Archie’s charm wasn’t just reserved for his family, though. He quickly became romantically involved with Peggy Mitchell, adding another layer of complexity to his story. The two seemed like a perfect match at first, but Archie’s true colours eventually surfaced. His affair with Janine Butcher and his incessant need for control created a rift between him and Peggy, culminating in one of the most dramatic showdowns in EastEnders history. Peggy’s fiery temper clashing with Archie’s cold, calculating demeanour made for unforgettable TV moments.

Despite his charming façade, Archie’s dark side was never far from the surface. His involvement in various schemes and his ability to manipulate those around him showcased his cunning nature. Whether it was plotting to take over The Queen Vic or scheming against his own family, Archie always had a plan brewing. His knack for getting what he wanted, no matter the cost, made him both a feared and fascinating character.

Archie Mitchell’s time in Albert Square came to a shocking end, but his legacy lived on, impacting the lives of the Mitchell family long after his departure. His murder on Christmas Day was a turning point in the show, leaving viewers in shock and sparking one of the biggest whodunits in EastEnders history. Archie’s presence in the Square may have been brief, but it was undeniably impactful, making him one of the most memorable villains to ever grace the streets of Walford.