It’s official - ANOTHER one of our favourite EastEnders stars is bidding goodbye to Albert Square.
Sob.
Over the summer, viewers will see the character of Max Branning (Jake Wood) pushed to his limits when he finds himself in a situation that even he can’t squirm out of.
In typical Max fashion there will be lots of drama before he goes… but viewers need not worry as Jake has already re-signed his contract and will be back after a year-long break.
Phew!
The show’s executive producer, Dominic Treadwell-Collins, said: “When I returned to EastEnders both Jake and I agreed that Max has been through so much over the past 9 years that we would give both him and Jake a break when the opportunity arose.
“That opportunity has come and it is the perfect time to send Max Branning out with a bang that will send ripples through the Square for the rest of the year until Jake returns.”
Talking about his decision to take a break, Jake said: “I have been at EastEnders for 9 years and I feel the time is right to give Max a break.
“But it won’t be for too long as I shall be back next year to see Max face another chapter of drama.”
Jake Wood joined EastEnders 9 years ago when he arrived with his on screen family. He has been involved in some of EastEnders’ biggest moments, most notably when Max had an affair with Stacey, his daughter in law.
Recently, Max's daughter Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) left the square to travel the world with Peter Beale (Ben Hardy).
And, with Dot Cotton (June Brown) currently in prison, Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) god knows where, and Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner) living it up away from her ‘toxic’ hubby, it seems the Brannings are dropping like flies.
We guess all of our hopes are pinned on Bad Abi (Lorna Fitzgerald) now…
Will you be sad to see Max Branning leave Albert Square for a year? Let us know via the comments box below now.