EastEnders fans are bracing for heartbreak as Stacey Slater edges closer to her emotional exit from Walford — and Max Branning’s sudden return has only added fuel to the fire.

Max’s Shocking Comeback

Jake Wood’s Max Branning stunned viewers with a surprise appearance during Tuesday night’s episode (September 30). He arrived unannounced at his daughter Lauren’s wedding to Peter Beale, leaving the Square reeling. For many residents, his face was the last one they wanted to see.

The shock return marks Max’s first major appearance since 2021, when his affair with Linda Carter tore his family apart. A flashback revealed that Max had been secretly involved with Stacey’s cousin, Zoe Slater, before she abruptly abandoned him — and left him convinced she’d stolen £5,000.

Stacey’s Dilemma

For Stacey, already torn over whether to move to Brazil, Max’s reappearance couldn’t come at a worse time. Zoe has warned her cousin not to fall back into old patterns, reminding her of the pain Max once caused. Yet, when Max followed Stacey home for a drink, the chemistry between them resurfaced.

In a tense exchange, Stacey made it clear that Martin Fowler remained the love of her life. Still, the moment nearly turned into something more before Zoe interrupted, urging Stacey to go through with her move.

Fans Sound Off

As the love triangle deepened, viewers took to Reddit to vent their frustrations:

• One fan wrote, “Max limbering up to ruin Stacey’s life for the 17th time.”

• Another added, “Max get a job stay away from her!!! I’ve never understood how Stacey could stand to be around Max after Bradley died.”

• Others dismissed Max and Zoe’s spark entirely: “That kiss at the end felt so forced and awkward. Max and Zoe have absolutely no passion or chemistry whatsoever.”

Many echoed the same plea: Stacey deserves better, and they don’t want Max to derail her final storyline.

What’s Next for Stacey?

With Lacey Turner’s departure expected in Thursday’s episode (October 2), the Square braces for one of its most dramatic exits in years. Will Stacey leave for Brazil as planned — or will Max’s chaos tie her to Walford once again?