EastEnders fans were left in shock during tonight’s episode as Max Branning made a shock return to the Square as it was revealed he had been calling Zoe Slater – but why?

Max Branning made a shock return to EastEnders in tonight’s episode (Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)

EastEnders viewers were left in shock at the end of tonight’s episode, as Jake Wood reprised his role of Max Branning in a jaw-dropping cliffhanger.

It came after it was revealed that Zoe Slater was the one who had been shot accidentally by Jack Branning during last night’s epic ending. With Zoe left fighting for her life in hospital just days after her return to Albert Square, her mother Kat feared she was running from someone who was determined to harm her.

Michelle Ryan reprised her role as Zoe Slater after 20 years for a brief stint in June, in which she was seen staying with Stacey Slater – although later made a run for Barcelona. However, last week, her brother Tommy Moon tracked her down as it was revealed she was in London and brought her back to the Square for the ‘mother of all reunions’ with Kat and the Slaters.

Max Branning has been ringing Zoe Slater – but what does he want?(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)

Last night, Zoe tried to run away once again, although she was stopped by her grandmother Mo – and with Kat now fearing for her safety, she answered her phone, wanting answers.

“is this you, have you been threatening my girl? Did you shoot my daughter? You will not get away with this alright?! You will be hunted down you scum!” she could be heard shouting.

Kat was no closer to knowing who was on the other end of the phone, as the person stayed silent, although in a shock reveal, fans found out it was Max Branning.

Jake Wood reprised his role as Max Branning in tonight’s shock ending (Image: BBC)

But why is Max calling Zoe and what’s the backstory? Zoe left the Square in 2005, with Max joining in 2006. Therefore, the two never crossed paths on screen – but how did they come into contact and what does Max want?

It was announced earlier this year that Jake Wood would be returning to the soap after four years away from Albert Square.

Max was seen walking away in early 2021, after his affair with Linda Carter ended, and realising there was nothing left for him.

Max’s comeback comes following the return of his son Oscar Branning, who is now played by Pierre Moullier.

Speaking about his return earlier this year, Jake said: “I’m over the moon to be coming home to Walford. Max has got lots of unresolved drama with many characters, so I’m sure he’ll be busy.

“I’m excited to see what he’s been up to, and what is next for the character, but if his last 15 years in the Square are anything to go by, I’m sure there will be plenty of chaos.”

Along with his return it was revealed that the character would be making a brief return in autumn, before making a permanent return later in the year…