Jake Wood as Max Branning in EastEnders / BBC
Jake Wood is to reprise his role as Max Branning on EastEnders after four years away, it has been confirmed.
Max was last seen leaving Walford in February 2021 for a new life in France following the end of his affair with Linda (Kellie Bright) and was last said to be in Croatia with granddaughter Abi.
The character’s return will see him reunite with brother Jack (Scott Maslen), daughter Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) and son Oscar (Pierre Moullier) – and meet his daughter with Linda that he is seemingly unaware of.
“I’m over the moon to be coming home to Walford,” said Wood, who first appeared in the soap in 2006. |Max has got lots of unresolved drama with many characters, so I’m sure he’ll be busy.
“I’m excited to see what he’s been up to, and what is next for the character, but if his last 15 years in the Square are anything to go by, I’m sure there will be plenty of chaos.”
Exec producer Ben Wadey added: “I’m delighted to welcome the immensely talented Jake Wood back to the role of Max Branning. Whilst his character has only been away from Albert Square for four years, Walford, and the lives of those who live in it, have changed immensely.
“Max has a lot of unfinished business, but whether he is welcomed by his family remains to be seen. However, with a past as checkered as Max’s, it’s fair to say that many Walford residents will not be pleased to see him, putting the Brannings back at the heart of the Square, and the drama, this year.”
Max will make a brief appearance in the autumn before returning permanently later in the year.
