A Shock Return to Walford

EastEnders has delivered another jaw-dropping twist with the return of Max Branning, played by Jake Wood. After years away, Max reappeared in dramatic fashion during Lauren Branning and Peter Beale’s wedding, calmly catching the bridal bouquet before declaring it was “his lucky day.” The episode ended with Stacey Slater’s stunned reaction, leaving viewers convinced his reappearance is directly tied to her looming departure.

Turbulent Ties Resurface

Max’s comeback didn’t come quietly. A flashback earlier this month revealed he had been having an affair with Stacey’s cousin, Zoe Slater, before she abandoned him. Their connection ended in chaos, with Max believing Zoe had stolen £5,000 and fleeing after she was assaulted by a Private Investigator.

Now, with Lauren officially married to Peter, Max’s return threatens to dredge up old feuds and reignite messy family drama. But fans are focusing on what this means for Stacey—especially with Lacey Turner’s confirmed exit later this year.

Stacey’s Future in Brazil

It was recently revealed that Stacey is set to move to Brazil to live with her brother Sean Slater, who runs a restaurant abroad. Yet with Max back in Walford, many believe he will play a pivotal role in convincing her to leave.

On social media, one fan theorised: “Stacey has a change of heart and decides to go to Brazil after all but leaves with Max Branning. Max then makes his full-time return in December after leaving Stacey in Brazil and comes face to face with Linda and his daughter Annie.”

Others, however, were quick to point out complications. “Somehow I can’t see him actually leaving with Stacey if she’s going to Brazil to work with Sean, as Sean always hated Max’s guts,” another viewer argued.

Fans React to the Twist

Excitement quickly spread across X (formerly Twitter), with fans celebrating Max’s return. “The way I screeched with excitement at seeing Max back. Oh we so needed him,” wrote one viewer. Another added: “Gosh, Stacey probably IS the love of Max’s life, as Martin was Stacey’s. After clocking Lauren in her dress the very next person he focused on was of course Stacey.”

Others kept it simple but emotional: “Max Branning is finally officially back. It’s about time. Let’s be avin ya.”

A Collision Course Ahead

With Stacey’s exit confirmed, Max’s return has set the stage for a dramatic send-off. Whether Stacey departs with him or chooses her own path remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Walford is never quiet when Max Branning is around.