James Bye is stepping out of EastEnders for the last time. After Martin Fowler’s dramatic exit under the Queen Vic rubble, the actor faces a new challenge on stage. From live soap drama to a suspenseful theatre production, his next role promises tension and unexpected twists. How will James handle this new chapter away from EastEnders? Keep scrolling to learn more.
Emotional Exit From EastEnders
James Bye played Martin Fowler in the BBC soap. And his exit was one of the most intense ones. He was trapped in the rubble of the Queen Vic. And this happened after Reiss Colwell crashed his car into the building. He then waited for the emergency services to lift the beam from his legs. During that time, he spoke to Stacey Slater, telling her about uniting again.
However, he suffered crush syndrome as the beam was removed. After which, he died, and they couldn’t reunite. After his exit, James Bye said, “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, the soap wouldn’t be what it is without you, and to the BBC 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 is time to move on, and I am super excited about the possibilities the future brings. RIP Martin Fowler.”

Chris Clenshaw, who was in charge of the soap at that time, said, “It is very sad indeed to part with James, who has been a very dear and loyal employee of the company for 10 years. What he did in the live episode was exceptional, and I think many people will be moved by it because of his adorable portrayal of Martin Fowler, who has been a character fans have fallen in love with.”
James New Chapter On Stage
After leaving the soap, James has been working in the theatre. He even appeared in the production Death Comes to Pemberley. Elsewhere, he will now be seen making a comeback to stage acting. He got a role in 2:22 A Ghost Story. He is playing a character named Sam. And in that, he has to confront the chances that his partner Jenny’s house is haunted.

The story began as Lauren and her husband Ben arrived for dinner. Later, the group discussed the potential paranormal activity. After which, they stay up until 2:22 to see if they find something unusual. This is a fresh start for James and a return to his theatre roots. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.
