EastEnders has confirmed when Max Branning is returning to Albert Square after a four-year absence.

Jake Wood’s return has been rumoured for a while, and now the BBC One soap has revealed details on what to expect.

Max will be back on our screens briefly in the autumn, and then make a permanent comeback later in the year.

It’s been teased that the storylines he will be involved with include daughter Lauren’s upcoming marriage to Peter Beale, Oscar’s return to Walford, and Linda Carter still keeping the secret that Annie is his.

There’s also the fact that Stacey Slater, who he famously had an affair with and has always had feelings for, is now a widow.

“I’m over the moon to be coming home to Walford,” Wood said. “Max has got 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 is next for the character, but if his last 15 years in the Square are anything to go by, I’m sure there will be plenty of chaos.”

Executive producer Ben Wadey added: “I’m delighted to welcome the immensely talented Jake Wood back to the role of Max Branning.

“Whilst his character has only been away from Albert Square for four years, Walford, and the lives of those who live in it, have changed immensely.

“Max has a lot of unfinished business, but whether he is welcomed by his family remains to be seen.

“However, with a past as checkered as Max’s, it’s fair to say that many Walford residents will not be pleased to see him, putting the Brannings back at the heart of the Square, and the drama, this year.”