There’s a Branning back in town, which means we can safely expect drama is just around the corner!
Oscar Branning (Pierre Moullier) has been confirmed to return to Albert Square next week. Fans will remember Oscar as the son of Tanya and Max Branning, but he’s been off-screen for years. Now grown up and full of secrets, Oscar’s comeback promises to bring major drama and even bigger changes to some of Albert Square’s most iconic spots.
Oscar’s arrival comes as a shock to Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), who receives a surprise phone call that sets the stage for their emotional reunion.
As the siblings catch up, it becomes clear that Oscar has been through a lot, and returning home isn’t an option. His reasons for showing up in Walford remain mysterious, but they’re enough to leave Lauren reeling.
Soon after, Jack returns from his own time away and is greeted by Denise and the kids, only to find Oscar waiting for him. Determined to stay, Oscar reportedly uses some emotional blackmail to win over Lauren. Just as Peter and Ian Beale arrive asking questions, Lauren gives in and agrees to let Oscar stay for a while, on the strict condition that he behaves himself.
But Oscar may be more trouble than he’s worth. He’s quickly pulled into local drama and even tries to scam Ian by staging a fall in the chippie and demanding compensation an incident that amuses Stacey but alarms a passing social worker.
As chaos unfolds, Jack digs deeper and uncovers the emotional baggage Oscar carries from his troubled relationship with his parents.
In a bid to give him a fresh start, Lauren, after some advice from Jack, offers Oscar a trial shift on the fruit and veg stall once run by Martin Fowler. With Martin now tragically gone, the stall’s future had been uncertain. But Oscar might be the unlikely answer to keeping the legacy alive.
Though initially sceptical, Oscar is nudged into giving it a try by Penny. His first day on the market is set to be anything but smooth. However, when he discovers that Lauren’s son Jimmy is blind, Oscar begins to take the opportunity more seriously and starts to show he may be capable of change and gives his new opportunity a proper chance.
As Oscar’s return is imminent, fans will be keen to see if he will manage to step up and honour Martin’s legacy on the market, or will whatever he’s running away from catch up with him.
