The streets of Walford are rarely quiet, but this week’s EastEnders spoilers promise even more fireworks as a familiar face makes his

shocking return. Max Branning, one of the Square’s most controversial figures, is back — and his arrival could throw Lauren’s future with

Peter into absolute chaos. With wedding bells on the horizon, secrets in the shadows, and the return of a father with a history of scandal, the question gripping fans is simple: will Lauren still marry Peter, or will Max’s presence ruin everything?

Max Branning Returns — Trouble Follows

Max Branning’s return is set to shake Walford to its core. Known for his endless betrayals, tangled affairs, and fractured family ties, Max is not exactly the man most residents are thrilled to see again. His history with his daughters, especially Lauren, has always been turbulent.

Lauren has spent years trying to rebuild her life and carve out a stable future for herself and her family, and Peter Beale has been central to that stability. But with Max re-entering the picture, old wounds resurface. Will Max’s desire to reconnect with Lauren be genuine, or does he have ulterior motives that could derail everything?

Peter and Lauren’s Wedding Plans

Amidst the Branning drama, Peter Beale is eager to move forward with wedding plans. He sees Lauren as his future, a partner who understands the Beale legacy and the challenges of Walford life. For Peter, marriage is not just about love but also about building a family and reclaiming some sense of happiness after years of heartbreak.

However, Lauren remains conflicted. While she clearly loves Peter, the weight of her past — including her fraught relationship with her father — makes her hesitate. With Max back in Walford, those doubts multiply. Peter wants a united front, but Lauren’s divided loyalties could threaten to stall the wedding before it even begins.

Father vs. Fiancé: Who Will Lauren Choose?

The emotional heart of this storyline lies in Lauren’s dilemma. Max insists he’s back for good this time, ready to support his daughter and mend the bridges he burned. But can Lauren really trust him? Fans know Max has made promises before, only to betray the very people who gave him a second chance.

Peter, meanwhile, grows increasingly frustrated. From his perspective, Max’s arrival is a recipe for disaster. He worries that Lauren’s father will manipulate her, undermining their relationship and casting a shadow over their future together. For Peter, it’s not just about Lauren’s love — it’s about protecting the life they’ve been trying to build.

As tensions rise, the Branning-Beale conflict becomes impossible to ignore. The question isn’t just whether Lauren will marry Peter — it’s whether she can stand by him while also giving her father another chance.