Max Branning's EastEnders 'return storyline sealed' - as fans 'rumble' Oscar's involvement

EastEnders fans were overjoyed with the news of another classic return yesterday, as it was confirmed Oscar Branning would be making his return to Walford.

The news came following rumours that Oscar's dad Max Branning (Jake Wood) would also be making a return to EastEnders. Now, with the confirmation of Oscar's return, fans think they've worked out Max's return storyline, should the rumours be true.

Oscar was last seen in the soap in 2017 when he made a brief visit to Max on Father’s Day. The official announcement reads: "However, just why he is returning and where he’s been is set to be revealed when Lauren receives a mysterious call. Newcomer Pierre Moullier will play Oscar, who is now 17, as he turns up and turns Lauren’s life upside down."

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Max left Walford in 2021, months before the birth of his and Linda Carter's daughter Annie. As he left Walford before Linda discovered she was pregnant, she chose to keep Annie's paternity a secret, pretending she was Mick's. Max's brother Jack found out the truth, but decided to keep it a secret from him, as did Lauren.

However, fans now think Oscar will be the one to deliver the truth to Max, predicting he'll return to see his biological daughter.

Taking to Reddit after Oscar's return announcement, one fan penned: "What if when Lauren tells Oscar about Annie then Oscar is the one who tells Max by calling him, causing Max to come back?" suggested one fan, as another agreed: "That's exactly what I was thinking!"

Another fan wrote: "Will he find out about Annie?" as another responded: "Most probably."

Speaking about Oscar's return to the soap, new Executive Producer Ben Wadey said: “I’m very excited to bring Oscar Branning back to Walford and introduce viewers to him now that he’s all grown up.

"Oscar is very much a Branning which means there’s going to be plenty of drama in store this summer. We’re delighted to welcome Pierre as he takes on the role and can’t wait for viewers to see him bring Oscar to life.”

Adding, actor Pierre said: “It’s pretty surreal to join EastEnders - it keeps hitting me that I’m actually on Albert Square! When I found out I was joining the Brannings, it was so exciting as they are such an iconic family, and I love that there are so many skeletons in the closet.

"Oscar is so much fun to play, and the audience should be prepared for the unexpected as he’s a complex guy!”

EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

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