EastEnders viewers believe they’ve figured out who Max Branning will be romantically involved with when he makes his dramatic comeback to Walford later this year.
Speculation is mounting as it’s reported that actor Jake Wood will reprise his iconic role as Max Branning later this year, marking four years since the character last appeared on the BBC soap.
Max, known for his complicated love life and explosive storylines, exited EastEnders in 2021 after 15 years of chaos in Walford. According to The Sun, his return is expected to stir up fresh drama and ignite new romantic entanglements — with many fans betting on Cindy Beale, played by Michelle Collins, as his next love interest.
Interestingly, Max’s comeback coincides with actress Lacey Turner’s temporary departure from the show as Stacey Slater, adding even more intrigue to the timing of his return.
Max’s tangled history includes a scandalous affair with Stacey while she was dating his son, Bradley Branning. Now, fans believe Cindy may be his next conquest — despite their complicated past. Max was indirectly responsible for the death of Cindy’s son, Steven Beale (Aaron Sidwell), after manipulating him into setting fire to Ian Beale’s restaurant in a twisted plan to kill Jane Beale.
Steven died in the hospital after suffering injuries caused by Max in a panic during the arson attack. The vendetta Max held against the Beale family stemmed from his wrongful conviction for Lucy Beale’s murder, a crime ultimately committed by Lucy’s half-brother, Bobby Beale, with Jane helping to cover it up.
Theories are flying across social media, with many fans taking to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their thoughts.
One user shared: “Before Max and Cindy inevitably hook up, can we talk about the fact that Max slept with Lucy and caused Steven’s death? #EastEnders.”
Another joked: “£50 says Max ends up in Cindy’s bed before the end of the year! #EastEnders.”
A third chimed in with excitement: “Max Branning returning is the best soap news of the year — we need him and Cindy together ASAP!”
A final fan added: “Max is coming back. How long until he’s paired with Cindy? #EastEnders.”
The BBC has yet to officially confirm the storyline or comment on the circulating rumours.