BBC/Composite: EastEnders Insider Share By Joel Harley Sep 3 2025 By Joel Harley Sep 3 2025 Max Branning makes shock return as Zoe Slater connection revealed Max is back! Jake Wood Max Branning Zoe Slater Share By Joel Harley Sep 3 2025 By Joel Harley Sep 3 2025 The one and only Max Branning returned to EastEnders tonight (Wednesday, August 3), as the soap revealed that he has a shocking connection with Zoe Slater. The surprise return of Max came as Zoe fought for her life, having been shot by Ravi Gulati and Max Branning. Zoe became collateral damage as the rivalry between Jack and Ravi escalated, and they fought over an incriminating gun. Having learned that Jack had taken possession of the firearm yesterday, Ravi snuck into the house and stole it back. However, Jack figured out what Ravi had been up to, and confronted him in the Square. As their argument escalated, they got into a scuffle and the gun was fired. The stray bullet struck Zoe, who had been fighting with mum Zoe nearby. After collapsing, Anthony and local paramedics desperately attempted to save her life. But who was trying to reach Zoe on the phone? Article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Max is back! (Credit: BBC) Max Branning returned as Zoe fought for her life in EastEnders tonight As Zoe lay fighting for her life, Kat learned that her daughter was on the run from someone who meant her harm. And, when Zoe’s phone rang, Kat answered, demanding answers. The figure on the other end of the line didn’t say a word, leaving Kat unaware as to his true identity. It was Max Branning, trying to reach Zoe. But what’s their connection? And what does Max want from Zoe? Max will be reunited with his family this summer (Credit: BBC) What happens next as soap reveals Max Branning return The soap revealed that Max Branning would be returning earlier this year, with actor Jake Wood teasing ‘chaos’ to come as the legendary lothario reunited with his family. Of his comeback, Jake revealed: “I’m over the moon to be coming home to Walford. 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.” Max is notably absent from tomorrow’s spoilers, so we’ll have to wait and see how Max and Zoe know each other… and what he wants from her. 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 Sep 3 2025 By Joel Harley Sep 3 2025
