The BBC soap has dropped a major hint about the outcome of the New Year's Day flashforward episode, suggesting which character could be set to take a bullet. In tonight's episode, Max Branning appeared to seal the fate of his children when he swore on their lives that he was telling the truth.
Max's Dangerous Vow
Viewers will recall the dramatic episode at the start of 2026 that offered a glimpse into 2027, showing Albert Square preparing for Max Branning's wedding to a mystery bride. However, things took a dark turn when Max woke up next to his pregnant mistress and was later arrested for his role in a murder.
Before that, his children Lauren and Oscar Branning were taken hostage and held at gunpoint, with Max receiving a text demanding he choose who dies. In tonight's episode, Max made a bold move by swearing on his children's lives that he was being truthful.
Cindy's Revenge
The drama escalated after a showdown in the Vic, where it was revealed that Max was seeing Linda Carter. Cindy Beale decided to get revenge by exposing Max's latest secret to his new lover.
Cindy has been blackmailing Max in exchange for her silence after discovering that he was the man who left Zoe Slater to die. Despite Max paying her off, Cindy revealed the truth to Linda, who was torn over who to believe.
What Happens Next
Eventually, Max managed to talk Linda round, winning back her trust when he swore on his children's lives that he hadn't left Zoe for dead. The question now is whether Max has just sealed one of his children's fates as they face a masked gunman on New Year's Day, or if further twists are in store.
