Jake Wood has admitted that it was "time" for Max Branning to leave Walford as his EastEnders exit draws near.

After playing the role for almost 15 years, the 48-year-old revealed last year that he had decided to quit the soap to pursue new projects.

"I've slept with 15 women in 15 years," Wood told The Sun. "I've had four marriages. Ten affairs. Shared a hot tub with Ian Beale. Gone to prison.

"Been throttled by my brother. And been buried alive. It's time for Max to go."

He added: "It is always going to be strange leaving any job after 15 years, and I've always had a routine so that's weird now.

"But it's been great spending more time with the kids, doing some home-schooling, and I'm looking forward to having a better work-life balance now.

"So I am happy with the decision. I think it was the right one, but I am really pleased they're keeping the door open for me to return. Never say never, you never know."

Max's exit is expected to play out in episodes airing next week.