EastEnders fans believe they have cracked the mystery of Max Branning’s new love interest as Jake Wood prepares to reprise his role as the charismatic yet troubled Walford lothario.
Jake Wood’s comeback to Albert Square has been confirmed for this autumn, sparking intense speculation online about which character might capture Max’s heart this time around. The consensus? Many viewers are betting on Nicola Mitchell (Laura Doddington) as Max’s next romantic partner.
On social media platform X, formerly Twitter, supporters shared their theories enthusiastically. One fan commented, “I could see him try his luck with Nicola Mitchell or Priya.” Another added a dramatic twist: “The idea of Max with Nicola but then cheating with Cindy and Nicola pushing him off the Queen Vic roof – now that’s classic #EastEnders.”
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Others exclaimed their support for the potential coupling, with one writing, “If Max is coming back, my money’s on a fling with Nicola. I’m shipping ‘Macola!’ #Eastenders.” Another put it simply: “Imagine Max returns and gets with Nicola? That’s a combo I want to see! #EastEnders.”
Since debuting in 2006, Max Branning has been known as a self-destructive, serial womanizer whose complicated relationships have driven some of EastEnders’ most gripping storylines. His departure in 2021 followed the fallout of his affair with Linda Carter (Kellie Bright), which ultimately unraveled after Linda admitted her feelings for her husband Mick, leading to police investigations and family strife.
Max’s return brings a wealth of unresolved drama. His daughter Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) is on track to join the Beale family through marriage. His rebellious son Oscar Branning (Pierre Moullier) is also coming back to Walford. Meanwhile, Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) is navigating life as a recent widow, and a previously unknown secret daughter from an old relationship with Linda adds further intrigue.
Jake Wood expressed his excitement about returning to the show: “I’m over the moon to be coming home to Walford. Max has 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’s next for him. If his last 15 years in the Square are anything to go by, there’ll definitely be plenty of chaos.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer from 6am.