EastEnders has confirmed Oscar Branning is set to return to Albert Square in a dramatic summer storyline.

It had been rumoured that Oscar, son of Max Branning, would be making a return to the soap back in May and now things are official.

Newcomer Pierre Moullier will play the now 17-year-old Oscar, who arrives back in Lauren Branning’s life after she receives a mysterious phone call.

Oscar, then played by Charlee Hall, last appeared on screen in 2017 during a brief visit to see dad Max on Father’s Day.

Speaking about his new role, Pierre said: “It’s pretty surreal to join EastEnders – it keeps hitting me that I’m actually on Albert Square!”

He added: “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!”

Executive producer Ben Wadey said: “I’m very excited to bring Oscar Branning back to Walford and introduce viewers to him now that he’s all grown up.

“Oscar is very much a Branning which means there’s going to be plenty of drama in store this summer. 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.”

It’s not yet been confirmed whether Oscar will return to the Square with dad Max, who’s played by Jake Wood, although it has been rumoured he could return to the soap after a four year absence.

A source for the soap said of Max’s return: “Bosses are excited about what his character’s reappearance means for spicing up the plots. There is plenty to go at. Max has loads of unfinished business in the Square and is set to ruffle some feathers.”