Tanya’s Absence Still Looms Large

EastEnders fans are buzzing with questions about whether Jo Joyner could reprise her role as Tanya Cross. Once a central figure in Walford, Tanya was last seen in 2018, broken and grieving outside her daughter Abi Branning’s funeral. Since then, her presence has lingered only in conversations.

Recently, Tanya’s name has resurfaced on screen. Max Branning revealed through flashbacks that their granddaughter, Abi Jr., is staying with her. Meanwhile, Tanya has washed her hands of her troubled son Oscar, showing how much distance she has kept from the Branning chaos. Even in absence, Tanya’s shadow continues to hang over Walford.

Cast and Crew Address the Speculation

During a press event on set, EastEnders executive producer Ben Wadey responded directly to questions about Tanya’s possible comeback. He praised Jo Joyner’s work and called her “amazing.” However, he also noted that the current cast is already overflowing with talent and stories.

Wadey, with a laugh, teased fans by saying: “We’ve just given you Max and Zoe!” He highlighted the drama that Max Branning’s reunion with Zoe Slater is already bringing to Walford.

Actor Scott Maslen, who plays Jack Branning, then added humor to the conversation. He quipped that Walford first needs “a bit of naughty Max” before Tanya could realistically return to put him in his place. The exchange made clear that while Tanya’s comeback is not confirmed, the door remains wide open.

Why Tanya’s Return Would Matter

Tanya’s character has always carried emotional weight in EastEnders. As Max’s ex-wife and the mother of Lauren and Oscar, she has been at the center of some of the soap’s most memorable storylines — from explosive affairs to heartbreaking losses. Her chemistry with Jake Wood’s Max Branning and her fierce determination as a mother made her one of Walford’s most beloved residents.

Now, with Max back and already tangled in a fiery romance with Zoe Slater, the timing for Tanya’s return could not be more dramatic. Tanya would bring another layer of tension, especially with Abi Jr. under her care. Fans know that family dynamics in Walford rarely remain calm for long, and Tanya’s involvement could easily tip the scales into chaos.

Will Jo Joyner Come Back to Walford?

The biggest factor in any return is, of course, Jo Joyner herself. Since leaving EastEnders, Joyner has stayed busy with multiple projects across television, proving her versatility and demand as an actress. That makes her availability tricky, but her continued connection to the soap and the love fans hold for Tanya keep hopes alive.

Wadey’s comments suggest that the show is not rushing into a Tanya storyline right now. Still, EastEnders thrives on surprises, and the Branning family drama almost demands Tanya’s presence at some point. Bringing her back could set the stage for emotional confrontations with Max, fiery clashes with Zoe, and heartfelt reunions with Lauren.

Fans Refuse to Let Go of Tanya

For long-time viewers, Tanya embodies the kind of character who grounds EastEnders in raw, emotional reality. Her absence feels like unfinished business. Every mention of her name sparks new speculation about when she might walk back into the Queen Vic or confront Max in the Square.

While producers play coy, the fanbase is not ready to let the idea go. Tanya’s return, whenever it comes, would be an unforgettable event in Walford — one that could reshape the Branning family yet again.