Tanya Cross

Name: Tanya Cross
First Appeared: 27th June 2006
Last Appeared: 16th February 2018
Played by: Jo Joyner

Tanya Cross, formerly known as Tanya Branning, is one of those characters who has seen it all in Albert Square. From her tumultuous relationships to her fierce battles with personal demons, Tanya’s journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions. Born and raised on a council estate, Tanya’s early life was marked by the tragic loss of her father, which left a lasting impact on her relationship with her mother, Cora.

Tanya’s love life has been nothing short of dramatic. Her marriage to Max Branning was a whirlwind of passion, betrayal, and more than a few shocking twists. Who could forget the time she buried Max alive after discovering his affair with Stacey Slater? Talk about taking matters into your own hands! Despite their rocky relationship, Tanya and Max’s chemistry was undeniable, making them one of Walford’s most iconic couples.

Family has always been at the heart of Tanya’s story. As a devoted mother to Lauren, Abi, and Oscar, Tanya’s maternal instincts often put her at the centre of family drama. Her bond with her daughters was tested time and again, from dealing with Lauren’s alcoholism to the tragic loss of Abi. After that tragedy unfolded, she could never look at Max again, and left in the family car after the funeral. She has spent a long time recovering and has stayed away from Walford. And who could blame her?