EastEnders viewers were stunned on Thursday night as Jake Wood reprised his role as Max Branning in a dramatic cliffhanger. The return came after it was revealed that Zoe Slater, played by Michelle Ryan, was the victim of a shooting by Jack Branning in the previous episode.
Zoe, who returned to Albert Square in June after 20 years, was left fighting for her life in hospital. Her mother Kat Slater feared that someone was threatening her daughter, leading to a tense phone call where Kat demanded answers from an unknown caller. The caller was revealed to be Max Branning.
Max and Zoe never crossed paths on screen, as Zoe left Walford in 2005 and Max arrived in 2006. However, the storyline suggests they have been in contact, with Max repeatedly ringing Zoe. The reason for his calls remains a mystery.
Jake Wood's return was announced earlier this year, with the actor expressing excitement about reprising his role. Max was last seen leaving Walford in 2021 after his affair with Linda Carter was exposed. His comeback follows the return of his son Oscar Branning, now played by Pierre Moullier.
Speaking about his return, Wood said: 'I’m over the moon to be coming home to Walford. Max has got lots of unresolved drama with many characters, so I’m sure he’ll be busy.' The character is set for a brief return in autumn, with a permanent return later in the year.
