Soap star Jake Wood could be saying goodbye to Walford and hello to Gwrych Castle

The EastEnders actor, who plays Max Branning in the series, is believed to be leaving the show with an “explosive exit” planned to end his 15 years on Albert Square.

The Mirror Online reported the 48-year-old is expected to bow out in a huge new storyline when Jake eventually makes his exit.

And although 'Enders fans will no doubt be sad to see him go, we might see him on our screens again a lot sooner than anticipated.  

Wood has now been made one of the bookies' favourites to take part in this year's I'm a Celebrity, with 3/1 odds on him making an appearance in the North Wales Castle turned ‘jungle’.

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: "Jake's no stranger to our screens.

“With his time on the Square coming to an end, we reckon I'm A Celeb chiefs could be about to snap him up."

While Jake’s exit from the show may come as a huge surprise to fans, it’s not all bad news as the door is being kept open for a future return.

Confirming the news to Mirror online on Wednesday, an EastEnders insider teased what was to come on the BBC soap.

For all the latest I'm a Celebrity 2020 news, sign up to our free newsletter

The insider said: "Sometimes in soapland, 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."

Meanwhile, Jake confirmed the news on social media, 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."

ITV bosses have confirmed that due to the coronavirus, they have swapped the Australian jungle for Gwrych Castle, Abergele.

Scheduled later this year, stars will still have to take part in gruelling trails, and fun-filled challenges to win food, treats, and to survive - only this time in a ‘haunted’ castle.