EastEnders' Jake Wood showered with praise as he celebrates 20 years of sobriety

01 January 2024 , 13:42

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EastEnders' Jake Wood showered with praise as he celebrates 20 years of sobriety

EastEnders star Jake Wood has celebrated a huge personal milestone to start the New Year as he confirmed that he has now been sober for 20 years.

The 51-year-old actor, who made his name as Max Branning in the BBC soap, posted a video on X, formerly known as Twitter, in which he stated that he has not had an alcoholic drink for two decades. He said that his sobriety is not something that he often speaks out about but thought that this was a moment worth documenting, in the hope that it will inspire others to follow on his path.

Jake said in the video: "I just want to say that tonight I’m 20 years sober. I stopped drinking 20 years ago tonight and that changed my life in so many ways. Anyone on the same journey, I send you love, support, and to anyone struggling there’s help out there."

Jake Wood has celebrated a huge personal milestone (Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty I)

Jake Wood is celebrating 20 years sober (mrjakewood/Twitter)

The actor then added in a caption to the video, a message to his followers for the New Year. He wrote: "I am 20 years sober tonight. So proud of myself and for anyone out there on a similar journey. If you are struggling there is help out there, please reach out and believe me if I did it you can too. Sending you all love & strength and a happy and healthy 2024."

Jake left his character Max Branning in Albert Square in 2021, when Max quit Walford after having an affair with Linda Carter, played by Kellie Bright. Max headed to New Zealand, and a new life, after he found out that Linda was still in love with her childhood sweetheart Mick Carter, played by Danny Dyer.

EastEnders' Jake Wood's snap of son has fans pointing out the pair's likeness

Jake Wood as Max Branning in EastEnders (BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)

Soap fans had hoped that Jake would return to EastEnders and there have been a few theories that would seem him head back to Albert Square and back in February he didn't rule out a return. Speaking on Good Morning Britain at the time, Jake said: "They've kept the door open. I don't think at the moment but never say never."

Jake also added: "What I’d also say is that a lot can happen in Walford between February and December – circumstances can change, relationships can change, loyalties can change – so what you may suspect now could be somewhat different as we make our way through 2023 and head towards Christmas."

EastEnders fans are still waiting for Jake to return so maybe 2024 will be the year instead.

James Brinsford