EastEnders’ Lacey Turner says emotional goodbye to ‘best mate’ James Bye after heartbreaking last episode together
James' new role has been revealed
LACEY Turner has paid an emotional tribute to her best mate James Bye after his devastating exit from EastEnders.
Viewers watched in horror as Martin Fowler (Bye) was crushed to d.e.a.t.h by a beam while professing his love for ex-wife Stacey Slater (Turner).
The tear-jerking live special for the soap’s 40th anniversary has been the most talked about telly moment of the year so far and both stars have been showered with plaudits.
Now, days on, Lacey has spoken about her admiration for her longstanding co-star.
She wrote on Instagram tonight: “There are no words to describe how I feel! Thank you for holding my hand not only throughout the crazy, terrifying, amazing, heartbreaking experience of the live ep but for holding it for the last 10 years!
“On and off screen! my best mate, a proper partner in crime! We laughed everyday from the very beginning until the very end and for that I will be forever grateful!
“Here’s to you @jimmybye! You are one of a kind mate! thank you for Martin fowler what a bloke!”
James, 41, isn’t resting for long following his soap exit after a decade on the Square.
His new job has already been revealed. He will play iconic Jane Austen hero Mr Darcy in the theatrical world premiere of D.e.a.t.h Comes To Pemberley.
Speaking about the role, James said: “I am leaving EastEnders on an absolute high after the explosive live 40th anniversary episode.
“After a decade of gritty storylines it’s going to be quite a switch to put on period clothes as one of literature’s romantic leading men, but I can’t wait for this new chapter to begin.”
Written by P.D. James, the 2011 novel is a m.u.r.d.e.r-mystery continuation of Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
This play was adapted by Duncan Abel and Rachel Wagstaff, while it is directed by Joe Harmston.
It also includes Endeavour star Sean Rigby as Colonel Fitzwilliam.
Viewers watched as Martin d.i.e.d heroically following an explosion that tore through the Queen Vic.
The fruit-and-veg stall holder stayed behind to rescue his ex Stacey.
As the two made their exit, a steel beam fell and crushed Martin’s legs.
Much of the live episode focused on paramedics’ attempts to help the legacy character.
Despite administering morphine, it soon became clear that Martin’s injuries were catastrophic.
As he lay trapped, he used his final moments to propose to Stacey, declaring his love for her.
When the emergency services began to lift the beam, Martin succumbed to his injuries, leaving Stacey screaming in anguish.
It has been revealed that some of Martin’s family will return to Walford for his funeral.
Namely, his daughter Bex (Jasmine Armfield) and niece Vicki (who is now played by Alice Haig).
Vicki will be accompanied by her boyfriend Ross (Alex Walkinshaw) and his son Joel (Max Murray).
EastEnders continues on BBC One and iPlayer.
