EastEnders demise for Martin Fowler

As one life came into the world another said goodbye…

Tonight, EastEnders said goodbye to James Bye as Martin Fowler tragically died in The Queen Vic after his character was crushed whilst trying to save beloved ex-wife and true love, Stacey Slater.

James Bye:

“Saying goodbye is not easy, but after 10 years at EastEnders and on the night of the shows epic 40th anniversary – the time felt right. It’s an honour to leave on a story of this magnitude. A huge thank you to all the fans of the show – EastEnders wouldn’t be what it is without you – and to the BBC and EastEnders team for trusting me with this role for so many years.

“This fruit and veg man will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s time to look forward, and I’m incredibly excited for what the future holds. RIP Martin Fowler.”

After months of avoiding their feelings, the pair finally admitted their true love for one and other and decided to give their relationship a chance, but their happiness was short-lived when the paramedics revealed that Martin could not be saved, and he later died in Stacey’s arms as a result of his injuries.

Martin Fowler first arrived in Walford on 30th July 1985, making him the first baby born in EastEnders to parents, Pauline and Arthur. The character was played by Jon Peyton-Price from Martin’s introduction in episode 49 in 1985. He was in the role until 1996 when storylines dictated a dramatic performer was required for forthcoming storylines.

Played by James Bye since 2014, Martin has been at the heart of some of ‘Enders biggest storylines, and his death is sure to have devastating repercussions across Albert Square as those that knew him struggle to come to terms with his death.

Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw:

“It’s incredibly sad to say goodbye to James, who has been a much loved loyal company member for 10 years. James’ performance in tonight’s live episode was nothing short of outstanding and one that I know will touch so many of you watching at home due to his loveable portrayal of Martin Fowler, which has made him a firm favourite amongst the viewers. When discussing James’ exit, we knew that we needed to give Martin Fowler the big explosive storyline that his character deserved.

“To leave the show in such an emotional storyline, during a live episode is something incredibly courageous to do as an actor, and one that I’m sure will cement itself in EastEnders’ history. I would like to thank James for everything he’s given to EastEnders, and although we will all miss him here at Elstree, he will always remain a member of the EastEnders family and we wish him the best for the future.”

From 1996 to 2007 Martin had been portrayed by James Alexandrou who is now overseeing theatre space Playhouse East. As Martin slipped away a birth was also taking place in the wreckage of the Queen Vic pub as Sonia (Natalie Cassidy) gave birth to Julia, the baby named by a viewer vote. The name is a tribute to EastEnders co-creator Julia Smith. In another vote audiences were asked to choose who Denise (Diane Parish) should unite with having found herself in a ‘love triangle’. Viewers decided she should stick with husband Jack (Scott Maslen) rather than lover Ravi (Aaron Singh Thiara).

“This week is resetting EastEnders. We had the Angie return to have one more special moment, we have had the Queen Vic properly destroyed, we have seen Phil have a realisation about his past and we have the first child of the show being killed off. This is about building EastEnders into the future.” – ATV Today Editor Shaun Linden

Catch up with the action from Walford in EastEnders on the BBC iPlayer.