EastEnders fans, things haven’t exactly quieted down offscreen either. James Bye, who played Martin Fowler for over a decade, has walked away from Albert Square, and he’s walking straight into something brand new. Keep scrolling to know more.
EastEnders Favourite James Bye Moves On After Shocking Martin Exit
Martin’s final moments played out live, ending with him in Stacey’s arms after a tearful proposal and goodbye. His story ended in heartbreak when a steel beam collapsed at The Vic and crushed his legs. When the beam was finally lifted, Martin suffered cardiac arrest and slipped away.

James spent 11 years playing Martin and took on some of the soap’s wildest storylines. He once pretended to be dead, made it through a brutal bus crash, and fell hard for Stacey. Martin was introduced in 1985, and James became the third actor to play the part. Fans stuck by him through the years, drawn in by his raw and emotional performances.
James Thanks His Biggest Cheerleaders
Now, James is stepping into a new world. James is now playing Mr Darcy in Death Comes to Pemberley, a stage sequel to Pride and Prejudice. The show is touring the UK, and his whole family’s come along for the journey.
While in Bath, he shared some sweet family moments online and thanked his wife and four boys for their support. “Death Comes to Pemberley is on tour and so are The Byes!” he wrote. “Big love to my biggest cheerleaders.”

His wife, Victoria, has also been open about the changes in their lives. The couple recently sold their home and is now living in a caravan with their four boys and two blind dogs. But there’s a plan behind the chaos. They’re building their dream home from scratch.
Victoria told followers that it was a long-time dream they had put off for years. Now, despite the madness around them, they’ve decided to go for it. “This is our year for change,” she shared. “And so we are, I mean, what could go wrong?” For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, follow Soap Opera Daily.