Max Branning

A real charmer, Max Branning (Jake Wood) just can't keep away from the ladies, despite his genuine love for his second wife Tanya. His infidelities have got him into a lot of trouble in the past - and will in the future.

Marriages Rachel (Bradley's mother; divorced), Tanya Cross

Children Bradley (deceased), Lauren, Abi, Oscar

2006 Looks up estranged son Bradley Branning and turns nasty with dad Jim Branning. On his last chance with Tanya after cheating on her and moves into the Square with her and kids Abi and Lauren. Cheats on Tanya again, this time with Bradley's ex, Stacey Slater.

2007 Uses and abuses Stacey, promising he'll leave his wife. Tanya falls pregnant and Stacey gives him an ultimatum but he flees to Spain with his family. Stacey reunites with Bradley while Max is away. Bradley's best man. Shares a kiss with Stacey on her wedding day. On Christmas Day, Lauren's wedding video exposes his affair with Stacey.

2008 Buried alive by Tanya and Sean Slater. Leaves Walford after Tanya releases him. Returns on Abi's birthday and learns of Tanya's relationship with his brother, Jack Branning. Moves in with sister Suzy Branning. Tries to frame Jack for a crime he didn't commit. Is beaten and humiliated by Jack. Becomes the victim of a hit-and-run.

2009 Finds out it was daughter Lauren who tried to kill him. Turns 40 and breaks into Tanya's house to try to celebrate with his family. Reunites with Tanya.

Nov 2010 Suffering chronic money troubles he steals Phil's insurance money for the Queen Vic then helps himself to Heather's life insurance for baby George.

Jan 2010 Finds out he's going to be a grandfather as Stacey and Bradley announce they're expecting. Decides to go into business with Bradley, despite their recent chequered history. Buys the car lot from Roxy and creates Branning and Son.

Feb 2010 Loses his son Bradley, who fell from police while trying to evade police who wanted to talk to him for a murder he didn't commit.

June 2010 Meets Vanessa and starts a relationship. Then gets divorce papers from Tanya who has become engaged to Greg.

Oct 2010 Blames Carol for pushing Billie to his death after she points the finger at Lauren. Reveals to a shocked Lauren that Bradley didn't kill Archie.

Nov 2010 Gets his revenge of Harry Gold for harrassing Vanessa by threatening him in tandem with Jack. But the threats backfire.

Played by Jake Wood

Jake was born 12 July 1972 and he first started acting when he was just 10.

He has appeared in many theatre, TV and film roles, including TV sitcom Only Fools and Horses, TV crime drama Inspector Morse, British film Vera Drake and... Read More