EastEnders is on the verge of a major shake-up as long-absent character Max Branning appears poised for a dramatic return to Walford — and this time, he’s not coming back alone. Reports suggest that Max will be accompanied by a now-teenage Oscar, his son, whose role has quietly been recast in preparation for the comeback.

Oscar, who hasn’t been seen in the soap since 2017, is being brought back into the fold as part of Max’s rumored storyline reboot. Formerly portrayed by Charlie Hall, the character will now be played by newcomer Pierre Muier. Though EastEnders has yet to confirm the casting officially, fans are already speculating on the new dynamic this father-son duo will bring to Albert Square.

Insider sources have hinted that Max’s return will be anything but quiet. True to his character’s tumultuous legacy, Max is set to stir things up and cause a ripple effect across the community. “There’s plenty to go at,” one insider teased, adding that show bosses are excited to reintroduce the infamous bad boy with fresh angles and unresolved storylines.

Max Branning, portrayed by Jake Wood, exited EastEnders in 2021 but made a memorable impression during his time on the soap. His character arc included everything from emotional betrayals to one of the most unforgettable scenes in soap history — being buried alive. Wood once stated that he never got tired of playing Max, admitting, “It was hard graft, but I loved it. I’m glad the door was left open.”

His possible return opens up numerous possibilities. With Max’s complicated romantic past, his history with the Mitchells, and deep-seated feuds across the Square, viewers can expect fireworks if he comes back. Throw in a teenage son with years of untold backstory, and EastEnders could be preparing one of its most compelling character revivals yet.

The BBC has declined to comment officially, neither confirming the Oscar recast nor Max’s comeback. Still, the buzz around Walford is growing louder, and the potential for drama is too high to ignore.

Could Max be returning for revenge? Redemption? Or will Oscar be the real storm to hit the Square? Either way, secrets from the past are sure to explode as EastEnders sets the stage for a thrilling twist.