Jessica Plummer and Ben Hardy, both well-known for their roles in the popular British soap opera “EastEnders,” have reportedly decided to part ways after making their relationship public in 2021. Their romance had sparked interest among fans and the media, but busy work schedules are believed to have played a role in their separation.
The couple’s relationship began quietly, allegedly blossoming while they were filming “The Girl Before” together. Despite keeping their romance low-key, they enjoyed a memorable trip to Turkey during the past summer. However, sources close to Ben and Jessica have revealed that their demanding work commitments ultimately led to them “growing apart.”
An insider shared, “Ben and Jessica were besotted with each other, but work has meant they spent a lot of time apart. Over time it’s taken its toll and recently they decided to call it a day.”
MailOnline has reached out to the representatives of Ben and Jessica for comment on their relationship status.
Notably, Ben still follows his alleged ex-girlfriend on Instagram, although Jessica no longer appears to follow him on the platform.
The couple’s split comes as a surprise to many, as they were seemingly going strong in the summer of 2022 when they celebrated Ben’s 31st birthday with a holiday in Turkey, albeit six months late.
Both Ben and Jessica have roots in “EastEnders,” with Jessica portraying the character Chantelle Atkins from 2019 to 2022, and Ben gaining recognition for his role as Peter Beale from 2013 to 2015. They later reunited as on-screen couple Simon and Emma in the four-part BBC drama “The Girl Before,” where their off-screen connection is said to have deepened.
Following months of swirling rumors, the couple officially confirmed their romance shortly after their appearance in the drama. They were spotted in central London, sharing a cozy embrace near a taxi after a night out with friends at Soho House.
Prior to his relationship with Jessica, it was reported that Ben had ended his romance with Olivia Cooke earlier in the same year, with sources citing that their relationship had “fizzled out.”
Ben Hardy has since ventured into Hollywood with roles in acclaimed films such as “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “X-Men: Apocalypse,” while Jessica Plummer participated in the 2020 edition of “I’m A Celebrity” and is a mother to her six-year-old daughter, Noa, from a previous relationship.