EastEnders will be saying goodbye to legend Max Branning in upcoming scenes, as actor Jake Wood leaves the soap.
After 15 years, the character will bow out in a huge new storyline as Jake's contract comes to an end.
Bosses have come up with a major new storyline that would see Max leave the show, while the door is being kept open for a future return.
An EastEnders source confirmed the news to Mirror online on Wednesday, teasing what was to come on the BBC soap.
An insider said "Sometimes in soap land big characters have to leave.
"Bosses are staying tight lipped about what they have planned for Max but considering he has played a major part in the show for over fifteen years they are clearly planning something big and he will not be departing Walford quietly.
"Everyone will be sad to see Jake go as he is not only a great person to have on set but he’s also a fantastic actor."
Jake confirmed the news, saying: "I’ve had 15 wonderful years at EastEnders and have made some truly great friends.
"I’ll of course miss everyone there but I’m grateful they have left the door open for Max and I’m excited to see what the next chapter holds."
Jon Sen, Executive Producer also shared the news, and teased what fans might expect from the exit.
He said: "Jake is a truly wonderful actor and EastEnders have been extremely lucky to have him for so long.
"We have a big storyline for Max that starts in the coming weeks and we are all very excited to see that play out."
The mystery storyline will begin in the coming weeks, while a date for his exit has yet to be confirmed.
Max has been at the centre of some huge storylines since 2006, including his affair with daughter-in-law Stacey Branning and his revenge against Walford.
Max has managed to get his life back on track recently, but has trouble with Ian Beale brewing after he used his money to buy the pub.
EastEnders airs Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays on BBC One.
