EastEnders fans have been left stunned by the unexpected demise in the soap’s 40th anniversary live special.
BBC One’s beloved soap marked its four-decade milestone with a bang – quite literally – this week, as it broadcast a tension-filled, 30-minute live episode on Thursday (February 20).
Following the spectacular Queen Vic explosion and fire cliffhanger, which left many characters’ lives hanging in the balance, viewers were confronted with the tragic fate of Reiss Colwell (Jonny Freeman).
Inside the pub, chaos reigned as Sonia Fowler (Natalie Cassidy) was in the throes of labour, while Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) and Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) were caught up in the mayhem. To add to the high stakes, Martin Fowler (James Bye) found himself trapped beneath a fallen beam, with his former partner Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) at his side.
In the heart-wrenching live episode aired on February 20, medics rushed to assist Martin, though his outlook seemed dire. Viewers were moved as Stacey and Martin contemplated rekindling their vows, with Martin delivering an emotional ode to Stacey amidst the chaos.
However, the drama peaked when Martin succumbed to a heart attack – a consequence of his injuries – and passed away, much to the dismay of fans who vehemently objected to his character being written out, reports Plymouth Live.
On social media, EastEnders fans expressed their discontent with one writing: “Martin was one of my favourite characters! Such a bad decision.”
Another shared their frustration: “No I’m fuming that was such a good episode why did they have to go and ruin it.”
One emotional fan confessed: “A HUGE CRYING MESS, nobody speak to me because I am sobbing.”
Echoing this sentiment, another viewer wrote: “This is not what I wanted/expected for the 40th anniversary! First jack wins the vote and then Martin dies.. absolutely gutted.”
Reflecting on his dramatic departure, James Bye stated: “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.”
He expressed his gratitude, saying: “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.”