As EastEnders gears up for its momentous 40th anniversary in February 2025, fans are eagerly anticipating which familiar

faces might return to Albert Square. Among the names that frequently surface in fan discussions is Tanya Cross Branning,

portrayed by Jo Joyner. Tanya, who first graced the soap’s screens in 2006, became a central figure in some of the show’s

most memorable storylines, making her a top contender for a dramatic comeback.

Tanya’s initial run on EastEnders was marked by high-stakes drama and complex relationships. She joined the show with her family—the Brannings—which included Max, Lauren, and Abby. The Brannings quickly became a fan-favorite, especially with storylines like Max’s affair with Stacey Slater, which culminated in an explosive Christmas Day revelation that left viewers on the edge of their seats. Tanya’s role was pivotal in these narratives, cementing her status as one of the show’s iconic characters.

Recently, Jo Joyner sparked excitement among fans with a cryptic remark about her potential return. During an appearance on The One Show, Joyner was asked by hosts Alex Jones and Anita Rani if she might reprise her role. While Joyner was non-committal, stating, “Not at the moment, but never say never,” she hinted at the possibility of a return. “It was a great time,” she acknowledged, teasing that there could be a chance if the right circumstances arose.

With Tanya’s daughter, Lauren Branning, currently residing in Albert Square, there’s a compelling reason for Tanya to make a comeback. The ongoing presence of Lauren provides a natural storyline hook, potentially offering a poignant reunion and fresh drama. The narrative potential of Tanya returning to navigate the complexities of her family’s current situations, especially with the soap’s planned live episode featuring a romantic twist, makes the idea even more intriguing.

As the anniversary approaches, the anticipation is building, with fans hoping that Tanya’s return could be one of the many surprises in store. The live episode, which will allow viewers to influence the direction of a romantic plotline, could serve as the perfect opportunity for Tanya to re-enter the story, creating a buzzworthy moment that aligns with the show’s milestone celebration.

In summary, while Jo Joyner’s return as Tanya Cross Branning is not yet confirmed, the hints dropped during her recent interview have certainly set the stage for speculation. As EastEnders prepares to celebrate four decades of drama and excitement, the possibility of Tanya’s return adds a thrilling element to the forthcoming anniversary festivities. Whether or not Tanya will indeed step back into the limelight remains to be seen, but her potential comeback promises to be a captivating development for fans old and new.