Following months of rumours, the actor has now broken his silence and said he “cannot wait to return home” later this autumn, as Max has “lots of unresolved drama with many characters”.
It will be the first time he has set foot in Walford since February 2021.
Jake Wood breaks silence on BBC EastEnders return
Jake, who first joined EastEnders in 2006, shared in a statement on Instagram to his 179k followers: “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.
“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.”
EastEnders said in a post on social media: “Max left Walford back in 2021 when his affair with Linda Carter ended after she revealed her true feelings for husband Mick, and his subsequent meddling resulted in brother Jack Branning’s suspension from his job with the police.
“With daughter Lauren expected to marry into the Beale’s, tearaway teenage son Oscar back in Walford, Stacey Slater widowed, and a secret daughter with ex-lover Linda yet to be discovered, Max has more than enough unfinished business in Walford awaiting his return…”
New executive producer Ben Wadey said he is “delighted to welcome the immensely talented Jake Wood back to the role of Max Branning”.
Ben added: “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.”
The news comes after a TV source told The Sun back in May: “Jake’s return is huge news for EastEnders fans as his character made a massive mark on the show.
“It’ll raise some eyebrows after he was absent from the 40th anniversary earlier this year.
A parent’s worst nightmare. Watch the whole episode now 👉 https://t.co/gc0puew9Ep #EastEnders pic.twitter.com/Xi8lZaeEcS
— BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) July 10, 2025
“Bosses are excited about what his character’s reappearance means for spicing up the plots.
“There is plenty to go at. Max has loads of unfinished business in the Square and is set to ruffle some feathers.”
Many fans have taken to Jake’s Instagram post to share their excitement about his anticipated return.
Someone commented: “Might actually have to start watching EastEnders again. Can’t wait to see what chaos is caused.”
Another wrote: “Always been one of my favourite characters so happy this is happening.”
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This person put: “Haven’t watched it for years but I will if you’re back mate.”
One viewer exclaimed: “OMG FINALLY.”
EastEnders has confirmed Max will return briefly later this autumn, with his permanent return scheduled for later in the year.
