The BBC has confirmed a major schedule change for EastEnders on Monday, June 16, as the long-running soap transitions into a new era under incoming executive producer Ben Wadey.

Wadey, a former Channel 4 commissioning executive and previous story editor on EastEnders, steps into the role following Chris Clenshaw’s departure. In his first official move, he’s opted to pull the traditional early morning BBC iPlayer release – a decision that has sparked fan speculation of a surprise twist.

Instead of dropping at 6am as usual, the next episode will premiere simultaneously on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 7.30pm.

“Next week marks the start of something big in Walford that we hope will get everyone talking, and it’s only just the beginning,” Wadey teased.

He added that this summer would be “unmissable,” promising “twists, shocks, and plenty of drama.”

Fan Theories Explode Over Max Branning Return

The schedule change – and Wadey’s cryptic tease – have ignited a wave of speculation among fans that EastEnders legend Max Branning, played by Jake Wood, is making a dramatic return after a four-year absence.

One post on X (formerly Twitter) claimed:

“It’s Max Branning and Oscar returning this Monday 16th June 2025 at Number 14 Albert Square spoiler reveal.”

Another asked simply: “Max??”

Rumours of Max’s comeback have swirled for months, with The Sun reporting in May that Jake Wood was in talks to reprise his role. A source said the return was “huge news” and hinted at “unfinished business” and “ruffled feathers” on the Square.

Though the BBC declined to comment at the time, fans are now convinced his reappearance is imminent.

Monday’s Episode: A Wedding, A Secret, and Sabotage

According to The Metro and Radio Times, Monday’s episode is set against the backdrop of Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) and Alfie Moon’s (Shane Richie) wedding day – a potentially explosive setting for a major return.

Meanwhile, Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) takes matters into her own hands to undermine Harvey Monroe (Ross Boatman) and Kathy Beale’s (Gillian Taylforth) new business venture.

And in a final twist, Alfie appears to be hiding something, while George Knight (Colin Salmon) receives crucial advice.

“Trust us, you won’t want to miss it!” the official EastEnders account posted on X.

A New Era for Walford

Ben Wadey’s arrival as executive producer is being framed as the beginning of a bold new chapter for the show. Insiders hint that Monday’s events are just the start of a summer packed with high-stakes drama, returning characters, and storyline shakeups that aim to revitalise the soap’s momentum after its 40th anniversary.

Fans can catch the much-hyped episode at 7.30pm on Monday, June 16, across both BBC One and BBC iPlayer.