James Bye, known for his role as Martin Fowler on EastEnders, recently left the show in a dramatic exit, and his next role has already been revealed. During the live episode marking the BBC soap’s 40th anniversary, Martin tragically died after being trapped under a metal beam following an explosion at the Queen Vic. The disaster was caused by Reiss Colwell crashing his car into the pub in an attempt to avoid Ian Beale. Viewers were devastated as Martin died in the arms of Stacey Slater, played by Lacey Turner. Post-EastEnders, James, 41, has quickly secured a new role, stepping into the shoes of the iconic Mr Darcy in the theatre production of Death Comes To Pemberley.
James Bye first joined the soap as Martin Fowler in 2014
(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
James expressed his excitement about the new opportunity, after starring in the soap since 2014, telling WhatsOnStage: “I am leaving EastEnders on an absolute high after the explosive live 40th anniversary episode. After a decade of gritty storylines, it’s going to be quite a switch to put on period clothes as one of literature’s romantic leading men, but I can’t wait for this new chapter to begin.” James will be joined by Jamie-Rose Duke, who will portray Elizabeth Darcy; Celia Cruwys-Finnigan as Georgina Darcy; Sean Rigby as Colonel Fitzwilliam; and Paul Jerricho will take on the role of Mr Bidwell. Mogali Masuku, Sam Woodhams, and David Osmond will also feature in the production. Last week, in a heartfelt statement after his soap exit, he expressed his gratitude and sentiments, sharing: “Saying goodbye is not easy, but after 10 years at EastEnders and on the night of the show’s epic 40th anniversary – the time felt right. It’s an honour to leave on a story of this magnitude.
Martin Fowler was killed off during the live episode of EastEnders
(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
“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.” He went on to say that it was time for him to “look forward” and that he was “excited” for what the future holds. Meanwhile, the soap is set to see a huge comeback with Bex Fowler reprising her role following her father’s tragic death. Actress Jasmine Armfield will reprise her role as Bex after a five-year hiatus, and her return is expected to be filled with emotionally charged scenes. After leaving in 2020 to travel, Bex returns home to be with her grieving family, including her mother Sonia. Soap boss Chris Clenshaw shared his excitement, saying: “We’re delighted to welcome Jasmine home to EastEnders as part of Martin’s farewell. There’s no way that Bex would miss her dad’s funeral, and Sonia needs her eldest daughter more than ever. “It’s been five years in which Bex has gone out into the world, so she’ll come back with renewed wisdom and experience.”
