Max Branning

Name: Max Branning
First Appeared: 27th June 2006
Played by: Jake Wood

Max Branning, the man with more lives than a cat, first swaggered into Albert Square in 2006. From the minute he stepped out of his car, with his somewhat-fiery hair and even fierier temper, Max quickly became a central figure in Walford. And not for the right reasons. Max would become quite the lothario – whether he was available or not!

His marriage to Tanya Cross was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with passionate reunions and explosive breakups. And who could forget his infamous affair with Stacey Slater? The Christmas Day reveal of their affair is still one of the most iconic moments in EastEnders history! Max’s romantic escapades didn’t stop there, though. From Kirsty Branning to Rainie Cross, Max’s list of lovers is as long as the Queen Vic’s bar.

Family has always been at the heart of Max’s story. His relationships with his children, Lauren, Abi, Oscar, and Annie, have been fraught with tension and heartache. The tragic death of his daughter Abi was a particularly devastating blow, showing a rare vulnerable side to the usually tough Max. Despite his many flaws, Max’s love for his family is undeniable, even if his methods of showing it are sometimes questionable.

From running car lots to getting involved in dodgy deals, Max’s entrepreneurial spirit has often landed him in hot water. His rivalry with Phil Mitchell added another layer of tension to his already complicated life. Whether he’s scheming to take over the Square or trying to keep his head above water, Max’s business dealings are never dull.

In 2021, Max decided to leave Walford behind after being rejected by Linda Carter, heading off to start anew in Croatia. unaware of Annie Carter being his child.

Returning in unusual circumstances, Max had met a familiar face outside of Walford, one Zoe Slater. Aiding her in locating her missing son, Max and Zoe became close. Returning to the Square in 2025, Max tried to rekindle his relationships, but was ordered out of Walford by an angry Lauren. He returned just in time for Christmas 2026.