BBC Share By Joel Harley Dec 31 2025 By Joel Harley Dec 31 2025 As outcast Max made a vow to his family, a game changing flashforward airs in EastEnders tomorrow Max is set to take centre stage in 2026 Max Branning Max Branning's New Year flashforward Share By Joel Harley Dec 31 2025 By Joel Harley Dec 31 2025 Max Branning was on a mission to win back his family in EastEnders tonight (Wednesday, December 31), following the events of Jimmy’s christening. With Lauren done with her dad after his recent spate of bad behaviour, Max was on the verge of leaving Walford when Linda stepped in. Inspired to fight for his children, Max is on a quest to step up for Lauren and Oscar in 2026. But, with a shocking flashforward airing tomorrow, can Max keep his promise? Here’s everything that happened in EastEnders tonight. Article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Ian tried to pay Max off (Credit: BBC) Max was an outcast in EastEnders tonight Following the events of yesterday, Max remained public enemy no.1. After being driven out of Peacock Palace by Elaine, he headed to the caff, where he was given his marching orders by Ian and Cindy also. Getting nowhere, he decided to speak to Oscar instead – enlisting his help to arrange a meeting with Lauren in The Vic. Lauren was dismayed when she arrived to find her dad there. Apologising for his behaviour at the christening, he seemed to be making incremental progress with his daughter – only for Elaine to ruin everything by revealing how he’d tried to hit on Linda last night. Done with being second-best to their dad’s eternal quest for women, Oscar and Lauren stormed off. Slipping back into self-pity mode, Max ran into Ian – who offered him a tidy sum of cash to clear out of Walford. As Lauren and Peter looked forward to their Max-less future, Max returned to the B&B, where he packed his bags amid a storm of self-loathing and pity. Max isn’t going anywhere (Credit: BBC) Max made a vow That evening, as the families gathered at Harry’s Barn, a smug Ian reassured Cindy that he’d successfully gotten rid of Max. He hadn’t counted on Linda though, who had caught up with Max before he could leave, offering a kind word of encouragement. As the bells rung on midnight, Max arrived in Harry’s Barn, where he made a big show of handing Ian back his cash. No, Max Branning was here to stay – and he’s finally going to become the father his kids deserve. But what does the future really have in store for Max Branning? A shocking flashforward airs tomorrow (Credit: BBC) Max Branning’s flashforward airs in EastEnders tomorrow As the soap continues tomorrow (Thursday, January 1), the action picks up on New Year’s Day 2027. In this very special flashforward episode, Max and the Brannings attempt to navigate a tricky situation… and it’s one which will have far-reaching implications for the family’s future. What else happened in EastENders tonight? As Max attempted to win his family back, Harry tried to return to a semblance of normality. He started work at The Arches again, but was unable to get past thoughts of revenge against Ravi. Nicola was successful in stopping Harry before he could do anything rash... but how much longer can he stay his hand? Elsewhere, Nigel flirted with Honey after growing confused, while the residents of Walford welcomed in the New Year. Here's everything else that happened in EastEnders tonight. Nicola got in Harry's way Harry started work again at The Arches, in the wake of everything that had happened. Noticing how Harry was struggling, Phil offered a word of advice... words which Harry took as confirmation that he should seek revenge. Out on the Square, Nicola spotted a menacing-looking Harry trailing Ravi through the street. She intercepted him at Container Junction, about to whack Ravi over the head with a spanner. Dragging him back to Harry's Barn, Nicola vowed to support her son - promising that he'd get his revenge on Ravi. Nigel took a shine to Honey With Phil and Julie checking out care home options for Nigel, Billy and Honey stepped in to look after him for the day. In The Vic, he grew confused, mistaking Honey for Julie... and planting a big kiss on her lips. Happy New Year! That evening, the locals gathered to celebrate New Year's Eve in Harry's Barn, The Vic and in the street. As Nigel danced with Honey, another unexpected pair locked lips... Vinny and Penny, at the stroke of midnight. Read more: Who’s leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns. Share Good to Know Share By Joel Harley Dec 31 2025 By Joel Harley Dec 31 2025 Next Story