EastEnders star Lacey Turner has shared her heartfelt reaction to the shocking departure

of her long-time co-star James Bye, whose exit as Martin Fowler left fans across the country devastated. Like many viewers, Lacey admits she was deeply affected by the emotional scenes surrounding Martin’s departure and couldn’t help but feel a sense of sadness over

how his storyline concluded. Speaking candidly about her feelings, she revealed that she,

too, was taken aback by the decision to write Martin out of the show in such a dramatic and final way.
Lacey, who has played Stacey Slater for years and shared many pivotal storylines with James Bye’s character, confessed that she felt particularly emotional watching his final moments unfold on screen. She acknowledged that Martin Fowler had been a staple of EastEnders for so long, and his exit marked the end of an era. While departures are nothing new in the world of soap operas, some feel more unexpected than others, and for Lacey, James Bye’s departure certainly fell into that category.
Reflecting on her co-star’s exit, Lacey admitted that she felt genuinely “sorry” for him, as she believed that Martin’s storyline could have continued for much longer. In her eyes, Martin Fowler’s fate was sealed far too soon, and she couldn’t help but wonder what could have been had he remained on the show. She expressed disappointment over the fact that his character’s arc was cut short, particularly given the long-standing history Martin had within EastEnders.

Martin Fowler, originally introduced as the son of Pauline and Arthur Fowler, has been a part of EastEnders since the show’s early years. Over the decades, he has been involved in numerous gripping storylines, including family feuds, dramatic relationships, and personal struggles. James Bye took on the role in 2014 and quickly won the hearts of fans, establishing himself as a beloved fixture in Walford. His portrayal of Martin brought depth and warmth to the character, making his departure all the more difficult for both viewers and his fellow cast members.
Lacey Turner and James Bye shared a strong on-screen connection, with their characters’ relationship being one of the most complex and compelling in the show. Stacey and Martin’s love story saw them navigate various highs and lows, from passionate romance to devastating heartbreak. Despite their ups and downs, there was always a sense of deep care between them, which made Martin’s exit particularly emotional for Lacey.

The actress also noted how much she enjoyed working with James Bye over the years, describing him as a fantastic actor and a great friend. She acknowledged that saying goodbye to him on set was not easy, as they had built such a strong professional bond. Lacey also shared her appreciation for James’s dedication to the role, stating that he had always given his best in every scene and brought authenticity to Martin Fowler.
Although James Bye’s exit has left a significant void in the show, Lacey remains hopeful that Martin Fowler’s story isn’t entirely over. Like many fans, she wonders whether there could be a possibility for his return in the future. Soap operas are known for their unexpected twists and dramatic resurrections, and EastEnders is no exception. While Martin’s exit was undeniably emotional, Lacey remains optimistic that Walford may not have seen the last of him just yet.

Ultimately, Lacey Turner’s reaction mirrors that of countless EastEnders viewers who were left stunned and saddened by Martin Fowler’s departure. She understands the impact his exit has had on fans and shares their belief that he still had so much more to offer within the show. As she continues portraying Stacey Slater, she carries with her fond memories of working alongside James Bye and the incredible journey they shared as co-stars.
For now, EastEnders moves forward with new storylines and evolving drama, but Martin Fowler’s absence will undoubtedly be felt. Whether or not he ever returns to Walford remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—his departure has left a lasting impression on both the show and its dedicated audience.
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