The soap's 40th anniversary week ended with Martin passing away after a steel beam fell on him in the Queen Vic

James Alexandrou, who played Martin Fowler before James Bye in EastEnders, has reacted to the character’s traumatic death. James portrayed the beloved character in the BBC One soap from 1996-2007. In 2014, Martin returned to Walford, but James Bye had taken over the role.

EastEnders star James Bye has spoken out about the demise of Martin Fowler in tonight's live episode, with him having shared a parting message in an emotional statement

The aftermath of Martin Fowler's (James Bye) tragic, untimely death played out in the latest emotional edition of EastEnders, as the news affected the entire community.

James Bye took over the role of Martin Fowler when the character returned to Walford after a seven-year absence in 2014. The character was the first baby to be born on the show to parents Pauline and Arthur Fowler (Wendy Richard and Bill Treacher).

EastEnders fans are in shock after one of the show's most iconic characters died in tonight's live episode. Martin Fowler - who was the first baby to be born in the show - died after proposing to Stacey Slater. Viewers watched in horror while paramedics fought to save Martin who had been crushed by a metal beam.

EastEnders has confirmed that Bex Fowler will be making a return to Albert Square following the death of her father Martin, with actress Jasmine Armfield reprising her role

Hot on the heels of the news that Vicki Fowler will return to EastEnders for Martin’s (James Bye) funeral, it has been confirmed that his daughter Bex will also be in attendance to say an emotional goodbye.