EastEnders Joel Marshall star's real age leaves fans 'gobsmacked' as he celebrates milestone

EastEnders' latest plot twist sees young Joel Marshall, portrayed by Max Murray, embroiled in a disturbing storyline that raises concerns about his attitude towards women,while the enigma of his biological mother begins to unfold.

Max Murray, who plays Joel, joined the cast of the BBC soap earlier this year, arriving on Albert Square with his father Ross (Alex Walkinshaw) and Ross's partner Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig), following the death of Martin Fowler (James Bye).

Despite being a recent addition to Walford, Joel has already caused a stir with his actions, including sexually assaulting a woman on the Tube, pushing Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall) into viewing adult content, and recording a private moment with Avani (Aaliyah James), who is now expecting.

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Murray's performance as the complex character Joel has garnered acclaim from EastEnders fans, sparking curiosity about the actor's real age. While Joel is depicted as a 15 year old, Max recently celebrated turning 18, reports Plymouth Live.

On Instagram, Max's mother, Gina Murray – herself an actress known for roles in The Bill, Doctors, Judge John Deed, and Witless – commemorated her son's coming of age with a series of heartfelt photos.

Gina expressed her joy on social media, posting: "Max is 18! Happy birthday! Now both my boys are men! ....Enjoy this special day and may it lead to many, many more fabulous days ahead."

She expressed her joy, saying: "I feel so very fortunate to have TWO gorgeous young men I can call my own. Remember that you always make me proud.... In good times AND in the more difficult ones.... I Love You, Max @maxmurray.official."

Emma Barton, known for her role as Honey Mitchell, chimed in with: "Happy Birthday Max.. you superstar", and Harriet Thorpe, who plays Elaine Peacock, added her well wishes: "Happy 18th Birthday Max."

Comedian Matt Lucas joined in the celebrations, commenting: "Happy birthday Maxxy!", while dancer Joanne Clifton simply stated: "Happy Birthday!"

Despite the birthday buzz, some EastEnders fans were left scratching their heads over Max's real age. Social media was abuzz with comments like: "He's 16, his mother is also an actress."

Another fan queried: "Joel is 14/15/16 his real age is 15-18?", and yet another speculated: "Max Murray must be around 16?"

One fan humorously admonished a photo of Max as Joel, writing: "You aren't old enough to be in a pub! Get out! @ginamurraywoman tell him! I'm not willing to age so neither can Max!".

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer