EASTENDERS alum James Alexandrou has responded to Martin Fowler’s tragic death with a savage swipe.
James, 39, played the beloved character from 1996 until 2007 – taking over from Jon Peyton Price.
Viewers were heartbroken after Martin tragically died in the BBC soap’s 40th Anniversary live episode.
Meanwhile, James took to social media to acknowledge his former alter-ego’s passing.
He joked in his Instagram story: “Somehow reckon I’ll still be asked ‘When are you going back to EastEnders?’
James accompanied this message with a snap of Martin’s death scene.
Meanwhile, James Bye had played Martin from 2014 until the character’s demise.
Walford’s first baby born died as a hero following the Queen Vic facing a huge explosion.
He stayed behind in the aftermath to rescue beloved ex-wife Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner).
Disaster struck, however, when a steel bar fell and crushed Martin’s legs.
Much of the live episode focused on paramedics attempting to help the fruit and veg stall holder.
After being given morphine by paramedics while firefighters tried to lift the beam, Martin and Stacey had a final conversation.
He proposed to her, declaring that he loved her – all of her.
As they spoke about their lives and futures – in or away from Walford, Stacey realised something was wrong.
Stacey couldn’t bring herself to tell Martin what was happening, but he realised.
He decided to tell her what he’d say at their wedding, telling her: “No pressure but I have loved this woman since the very first moment I saw her.
“I thought she was the sexiest thing I’ve ever clapped my eyes on. It’s alway been Stace because she feels like home and adventure wrapped into one.
“I know that this time and we are going to be in here in the Vic celebrating our anniversary in 40 years time.”
She begged him to hold on and they kissed before emergency services began to lift the beam.
EastEnders' 40th anniversary cameos so far
With the 40th anniversary of EastEnders coming up, fans are looking forward to some more incredible cameos from iconic faces of Walford's past. But who have we had so far?
Tracy-Ann Oberman – Oberman returned as Chrissie Watts, a character she last played nearly two decades ago.
Paul Bradley – Bradley returned as Nigel Bates, a character he last played over 25 years ago.
Micheal French – French returned as David Wicks, a character he last played two decades ago.
Patsy Palmer – Palmer returned as Bianca Jackson, a character she last played in 2019.
Ricky Groves – Groves returned as Garry Hobbs, a character who has not been seen since 2009.
Cliff Parisi – Parisi returned as Minty Peterson, a character who was last seen on the square in 2010.
Ross Kemp – Kemp has returned to play Grant Mitchell, a character he first played in 1990. The BBC has described Kemp’s storyline as “explosive”. Kemp said it was an “absolute honour” to return to the show.
Other aspects of the EastEnders 40th anniversary celebration include: A wedding between fan favorites, A huge explosion at the Queen Vic, and A live interactive episode.
Martin told Stacey: “It’s going to be alright.”
Tragically, Martin suffered a cardiac arrest and died leaving Stacey screaming in devastation.
How will Albert Square move forward after losing a pillar of the community?
EastEnders continues on BBC One and iPlayer.
