Jake Wood to take a year break from EastEnders

Jake Wood will be taking a year-long break from EastEnders later this year. Over the summer viewers will see the character of Max Branning pushed to his limits when he finds himself in a situation that even he can’t squirm out of.

In typical Max fashion there will be lots of drama before he goes - but viewers need not worry as Jake has already re-signed his contract and will be back next year.

Jake Wood joined EastEnders nine years ago when he arrived with his onscreen family. He has been involved in some of EastEnders’ biggest moments, most notably when Max had an affair with Stacey, his daughter in law.

Dominic Treadwell-Collins, Executive Producer said “When I returned to EastEnders both Jake and I agreed that Max has been through so much over the past nine years that we would give both him and Jake a break when the opportunity arose. That opportunity has come and it is the perfect time to send Max Branning out with a bang that will send ripples through the Square for the rest of the year until Jake returns.”

Talking of his break Jake said “I have been at EastEnders for nine years and I feel the time is right to give Max a break - but it won’t be for too long as I shall be back next year to see Max face another chapter of drama.”