EastEnders enthusiasts are speculating about the potential return of a beloved character to Albert Square, coinciding with the reopening of The Queen Vic.

In a dramatic turn of events earlier this year, the iconic pub was left in ruins after Reiss Colwell’s car crashed into it, sparking a fire and subsequent explosion that claimed the lives of Reiss (Jonny Freeman) and Martin Fowler (James Bye).

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However, with Linda Carter’s (Kellie Bright) insurance claim approved, the pub is set to undergo refurbishment, although a completion date remains uncertain.

Fans are now convinced that the reopening of The Vic will be marked by the surprise return of Max Branning (Jake Wood), who first arrived in Walford in 2006 and departed in 2021 to start anew.

Max was a favourite amongst viewers

Max Branning left Walford in 2021 (Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)
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Max’s daughter Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa), who is expecting a child, is also set to tie the knot with Peter Beale (Thomas Law), potentially paving the way for a grand Walford celebration.

Given Max’s history of being at the center of some of the show’s most captivating storylines, including his infamous affair with Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) and fathering a child with Linda, fans are eagerly anticipating his possible return.

On Reddit, one user posed the question, “So The Queen Vic finally reopens in May, hoping that EastEnders pulls out some surprises and maybe gives us a return?.”

One fan eagerly chimed in: “The only person I want to return is Max, he’s the person that makes the most sense, there’s so much to do with his character.”

Jake Wood who plays the iconic character sparked speculation

EastEnders fans are hoping Max Branning returns to Walford four years after leaving (Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)
A second viewer echoed this sentiment: “Max is a possibility but I don’t think we will see any returns till Ben settles in and we start to see his work”, reports Plymouth Live.

A third fan suggested a potential cameo: “I can see Max and/or Tanya coming back for a cameo for Lauren’s wedding, but that’s really the only return I think will happen for now”.

A fourth fan shared their hopes for the storyline: “I’m just hoping there’s good vibes, obviously they’ll honour the memory of Martin. But it’s not EastEnders without some drama … maybe Lauren and Peter have set a date for their wedding and tell everyone and then Cindy and Max walk in leaving everyone shocked (I have high expectations I know lol)”.

Meanwhile, another fan succinctly summed up their desires: “Maximum Max.”

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer