EastEnders has officially confirmed the return of Oscar Branning, who is set to stage a comeback to Walford after an eight-year absence.

The character, who was born on screen in 2007, is the son of Max (Jake Wood) and Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner).

His comeback is set in motion in upcoming scenes when Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) receives a call.

The exact reason for why Oscar comes back to the Square remains shrouded in mystery but let’s just say that Lauren’s world is subsequently turned upside down.

Trouble isn’t too far away where Oscar is concerned, with tense scenes to confirmed upon his return, which will air on-screen next month.

Pierre Moullier, who is taking over the role of Oscar, branded his casting on EastEnders ‘pretty surreal’.

‘It keeps hitting me that I’m actually on Albert Square!,’ he enthused. ‘When I found out I was joining the Brannings, it was so exciting as they are such an iconic family, and I love that there are so many skeletons in the closet.

‘Oscar is so much fun to play, and the audience should be prepared for the unexpected as he’s a complex guy!’

Bringing Oscar back was a brainwave of new EastEnders boss Ben Wadey, who recently reintroduced Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) after a two decade absence.

‘I’m very excited to bring Oscar Branning back to Walford and introduce viewers to him now that he’s all grown up’, he said. ‘Oscar is very much a Branning which means there’s going to be plenty of drama in store this summer.

‘We’re delighted to welcome Pierre as he takes on the role and can’t wait for viewers to see him bring Oscar to life.’

It was reported earlier this year that Max star Jake Wood is returning to Walford after a four-year gap so it appears that the year ahead could be a big one for the Branning clan.

EastEnders airs weeknights at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream first from 6am on BBC iPlayer.