EastEnders is in for a shake-up. As one favorite gets set to leave, another hot-headed character returns after a long time away. And given all the loose ends in the Square, things are going to get dirty.

A Scandal-Strewn Past That Continues to Haunt Walford

Max Branning, who had a complicated love life and a trail of devastation, departed EastEnders in 2021 to begin anew in New Zealand. But in the 15 years he spent in Albert Square, he never managed to stay scandal-free for long.

The actor, Jake Wood, was at the heart of the Square’s infinite dramas—four marriages, a decade of affairs, and notoriously sleeping with his son Bradley’s girlfriend, Stacey Slater.

His departure brought a temporary peace to the Square, but audiences never doubted Max’s tale wasn’t finished.

Now, his non-appearance at the show’s 40th anniversary celebration earlier this year is understood. Max’s return later this year is now confirmed, according to a show insider, and is set to rekindle old conflicts. The insider referred to the return as “huge news” and stated that Max will “ruffle some feathers” as he returns to Walford’s complicated network.

EastEnders: Stacey’s Departure and Max’s Return Crash

Adding drama to the mix, Max’s return will coincide with Stacey Slater’s exit from the soap. With this hot-and-bothered history between them, the timing couldn’t be more dramatic. While news of Stacey’s exit is being kept under wraps, her story is set to cross paths with Max’s.

Jake Wood has also been frank about his experience on the show. Although he conceded he didn’t miss the grueling filming schedule, he added that he did miss the others, and the excitement of finding himself at the center of large storylines.

He remembered the thrill of live episodes and gripping Christmas specials, saying they were “terrifying, but great fun.”

His comeback is just a tip of the hat there are many new plotlines in line. Max still has a lot of unfinished business in Walford, insiders claim, and his comeback is rich in potential for new drama.

As Max returns to Walford, relationships are put to the test, secrets come out, and nobody is safe from the repercussions. Keep reading Soap Opera Daily for all the latest EastEnders spoilers, casting announcements, and behind-the-scenes scoop.