EastEnders viewers are elated to have Oscar Branning returning to the BBC One soap – for one key reason.
It was confirmed on Saturday that Oscar, the younger brother of Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), will be returning to Walford following an eight year absence.
The character, who was born on screen in 2007, is the son of Max (Jake Wood) and Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner).
Bringing Oscar back is new executive producer Ben Wadey, who made quite the impact during his first episode last week, when he reintroduced Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) after two decades.
‘I’m very excited to bring Oscar Branning back to Walford and introduce viewers to him now that he’s all grown up’, he said.
‘Oscar is very much a Branning which means there’s going to be plenty of drama in store this summer.’
It was also revealed that Netflix star Pierre Moullier will take on the role, as first reported by Metro in May.
Pictures showed the actor filming on location alongside his on-screen sister, plus Ian and Peter Beale legends Adam Woodyatt and Thomas Law. The group seemed to be evading an attack from three thugs brandishing a cricket bat.
Ben added: ‘We’re delighted to welcome Pierre as he takes on the role and can’t wait for viewers to see him bring Oscar to life.’
A new addition is always welcome on Albert Square – but even more so when fans are so enthused about the casting.
Metro readers flocked to social media to comment on the striking resemblance between Pierre and Jake Wood, who is also tipped to reprise his Max role.
‘Wowsers I’ll give the casting directors something… the kid could be Max’s IRL’ said @thmshooper.
@matricharchybaby added: ‘He looks just like max omg.’
‘Looks like Max. Excellent casting’ commented @alaladelad.
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‘What a casting he’s defo gonna be a mini Max’ shared @mishybabez_.
@guineasfinest agreed, writing: ‘This unreal casting. Max Branning twin.’
…and the replies didn’t stop there.
The last time we saw the character, he was portrayed by child star Charlee Hall. As a result, he was never at the centre of a huge story – though could be heard quite prominently during the reveal of Max’s affair with Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner).
Following the explosive fall out in that iconic Christmas Day episode, the youngster was crying upstairs. Tanya rushed to attend to him and pack her bags, and was sent tumbling down the staircase.
On joining the serial drama, Pierre said: ‘‘It keeps hitting me that I’m actually on Albert Square!’
‘When I found out I was joining the Brannings, it was so exciting as they are such an iconic family, and I love that there are so many skeletons in the closet.
‘Oscar is so much fun to play, and the audience should be prepared for the unexpected as he’s a complex guy!’
