Ben Stewart (Blue Heelers)

Ben Stewart
Occupation	Police officer (fictional)
Years active	Seasons 5–11 of Blue Heelers
Known for	Character in Australian police drama Blue Heelers

Benjamin "Ben" Stewart is a fictional figure featured in the Australian police drama Blue Heelers, brought to life by actor Paul Bishop.

Ben made his debut as a guest character midway through season 5 before becoming a permanent member of the cast until season 11. Originally serving as a Detective Acting Sergeant within the Organised Crime Squad, he was falsely implicated in a murder case by Detective Sergeant Peppy Romano from the Homicide Squad. After Romano was revealed as the actual perpetrator and tried to implicate Ben, Ben assaulted him while Romano was restrained, leading to Romano's termination and legal charges. As a result, Ben faced demotion to Senior Constable and received a permanent posting at Mount Thomas.

In his personal life, Ben had a short-lived romance with Maggie Doyle, who eventually chose fellow officer P.J. Hasham. He is divorced from Rachael and shares custody of three children—Madeline, Emma, and Josh—who primarily resided with their mother. When Rachael intended to relocate the children to Perth, Ben contemplated seeking custody but ultimately refrained from opposing the move.

Between late season 9 and throughout season 10, Ben battled alcoholism, a struggle triggered by being overlooked for promotion and separation from his children. During this period, he encountered Marrissa Caddrock through the Salvation Army, joined the organization, committed to a vow of chastity, and became engaged to her.

At the conclusion of season 10, in an effort to protect police colleague Susie Raynor, Ben fatally shot her paralyzed husband Brad. This incident sparked courtroom controversy due to unfounded allegations of an affair between Ben and Susie; although Ben was exonerated, Marrissa ended their engagement. At the beginning of season 11, Ben earned a promotion to Sergeant.

Following a bombing at the police station in season 11 that claimed the life of close friend Jo, Ben experienced intense guilt. He briefly dated Susie Raynor, who ended their relationship because of romantic feelings for another officer (Evan 'Jonesy' Jones). After hesitating to use his firearm during a critical moment involving Jonesy—who accused Ben of malicious intent—Ben faced significant personal and professional turmoil, including suicidal thoughts. A phone call from his son ultimately motivated him to resign from the police force and move to Perth to be closer to his children.

Within Blue Heelers, Ben Stewart stands as the fifth longest-serving character after Tom Croydon, Chris Riley, P.J. Hasham, and Maggie Doyle.