EastEnders stars Michelle Collins and Adam Woodyatt have revealed what it was like to film the upcoming flashforward episode.

Last month, the BBC One soap confirmed that an instalment will air on 2026’s New Year’s Day, that’s set in 2027.

It will follow Max Branning (Jake Wood), as he finds himself in a sticky situation – one that, in typical Walford fashion, will not only have huge consequences for himself but also for his family.

Multiple events will unfold simultaneously, which means that 2026 will be one to watch for audiences, with many secrets waiting to be discovered alongside a plethora of drama that would be hard for anyone – yes even Max! – to talk themselves out of.

The episode in question will provide clues about what is yet to unfold for Max – and those around him – in 2026, meaning that fans will have plenty to speculate about.

Discussing the storyline, EastEnders boss Ben Wadey said: ‘For the first time in the show’s history, we’re going to be offering our viewers an entire flashforward episode set on New Year’s Day 2027.

‘2026 is going to be full of drama in Walford, especially for the Brannings, and the episode is sure to raise plenty of questions on how Max has got himself, and his family, into such predicaments, but all is not what it seems, so stay tuned for 2026 to find out how and why…’

Earlier today, Michelle and Adam, who play Cindy and Ian Beale, appeared on Scott Mills’ Radio 2 Breakfast Show to discuss what’s ahead for the Albert Square residents over the festive period, and how it was tricky to film the New Year’s Day flashforward.

Adam explained more: ‘You’re literally thinking, why am I looking at this person? Can’t tell you. Why am I saying this to this person? Can’t tell you. We’re going to go on a journey like the viewers, over the next year, and find out how we’ve ended up at this point.’

Michelle added: ‘They only give us the bits that we’re in. I always ask questions, and they were like nope, cannot answer! That is a very weird experience, doing a scene and you don’t know why you’re doing it. It’s very odd.’

Adam pondered over how much he’s looking forward to finding out more storyline information over the course of the year, while Michelle called the episode ‘brave’.

In the lead up to the episode, focus is on Max, who does a very good job at clashing with everyone he lays his eyes on.

On Christmas Day, the Brannings and Beales prepare to eat Christmas dinner together on the big day. Things get off to a tricky start though as Cindy returns, forcing Ian and Peter Beale (Thomas Law) to spring into action to try and keep her away from Max.

As the dinner begins, it’s clear Max is still brewing over Oscar’s revelation, and it’s not long before chaos ensues when more than one truth sparks fireworks at the table.

With 2026 looming, the Beales and Brannings attempt to put on a brave face to celebrate Jimmy’s christening.

Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) and Peter’s attention is consumed by the prospect of Cindy and Max meeting for the first time, and they make a mutual decision to uninvite Max due to his behaviour at Christmas.

Later though, Lauren ends up changing her mind as she finds Max upset over not being involved.

By the time Cindy learns of this, she refuses to attend if Max will be in attendance. There’s no need to worry though, as Max clashes with Jack (Scott Maslen) and ends up uninvited again.

As 2026 dawns, a shocking flashforward episode will provide clues about what the future holds for Max as we find him and his family embroiled in drama on New Year’s Day – in 2027.