EastEnders legend star snubbed crew’s strange request during heartbreaking scene
James Bye has opened up about his "weird" request as his character Martin Fowler was killed off in an explosive EastEnders episode which aired earlier this year
James’ final scenes on the show were aired earlier this year (Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Former EastEnders favourite James Bye, aka Martin Fowler, has shared an insight into his departure from the soap, describing one aspect as “weird”.
His character met a dramatic fate earlier in the year, being written out in a gripping storyline during the show’s 40th anniversary episodes.
Despite the shocking nature of his exit last February, the actor disclosed his odd feelings about revisiting his final moments: “I haven’t watched my character’s funeral. If I’m honest, I’d find it a bit weird.”
James also expressed his reluctance to observe his own swan song on-screen and recounted how a peculiar query from the set’s art department compounded his discomfort. They had requested personal photos for use in his on-screen funeral programme.
He recalled: “The art department were asking for pictures of me to put in the order of service. But I said no. I didn’t want real photographs of me with my family cut out.”
Discussing his poignant departure, James opened up to the BBC: “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.
“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.”
He went on to say: “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.”
James took over the role of Martin Fowler in 2014, stepping into the shoes previously filled by James Alexandrou from 1996 to 2007.
Following James’ decision to leave in 2007, Martin was written out of the script alongside his on-screen wife Sonia Fowler, played by Natalie Cassidy. But after being absent for seven years, the character made a return, with James Bye cast in the role in 2014.
And while he may have recently said farewell to the soap, James has hinted at more to come in a fresh Instagram post where he shared a moment with Lacey Turner, commenting: “Always great to spend some time with my old mucker, so much love for you Lacey”.
Best known for his portrayal on EastEnders, his acting career began back in 2006 with a role as Tom Burrows on The Bill.
However, since securing his role on the popular BBC programme, James has also made appearances on some of the nation’s favourite game shows, including Strictly Come Dancing where he was the fifth celebrity to be voted off in 2022.
