EastEnders LIVE: Martin Fowler star James Bye speaks out as fans weigh in on historic 40th anniversary episode
EASTENDERS celebrated it's 40 year anniversary last night with an explosive live episode.
The celebrations started off with a bang when the BBC soap's iconic boozer the Queen Vic was torn apart by an explosion earlier this week.
Fans tuned in last night to find out who would survive the devastating blast.
They also found out whether Denise chose Jack or Ravi - a decision that viewers themselves made by voting.
Now the dust has settled, many are weighing in on the historic episode - and the tragic death of Walford's beloved fruit and veg man Martin Fowler.
Follow our live blog below for the latest news and updates...
Watch the moment James Bye says emotional goodbye to castmates
James toasted his tear-jerking exit from EastEnders with a bottle of bubbly and cuddles with his co-stars.
In a sweet video, the Enders cast - including Jessie Wallace, Natalie Cassidy and Lacey Turner - could be seen celebrating a job well done as the live 40th anniversary episode came to an end.
The video was captioned: "More to come... so much more to say... but for now - to Martin & all the EastEnders family - we love you."
Martin died in ex-wife Stacey Slater’s arms in the closing seconds of the episode.
How much do you know about EastEnders? Take our quiz!
As the soap turns 40, just exactly how much do you remember about the iconic BBC soap.
Fans have been left watching on the edges of their seats all week as the nail-biting drama takes hold.
Take part here and see if you really are an EastEnders whizz.
Anita Dobson lined up for huge new reality show following cameo
The star has been tipped to appear on Celebrity Big Brother following her returning to EastEnders.
The 75–year-old shocked fans as she reprised her most famous role as the beloved Angie Watts, in honour of the show's 40th anniversary.
Angie appeared - 37 years after she was last on screen – and encouraged Sharon, played by Letitia Dean, to scream out from pub rubble after an explosion.
She wore the original outfit her character wore in 1985, which comprising a striped shirt and blazer.
The bookies now believe her on-screen re-emergence could be a precursor to a stint in TV’s most notorious house, with her odds tumbling from 12/1 to 5/1.
Fans call bosses 'cruel and nasty' over history repeating itself
Tragically Martin died leaving Stacey screaming in devastation for all the Square to hear.
However, EastEnders fans at home have hit out at bosses for killing another one of Stacey's lovers on the exact same day.
During the show's 25th anniversary in 2010, Bradley Branning died after falling from the roof of The Vic.
Taking to social media, one fan said: "15 years since Stacey lost the last love of her life Bradley Branning now she's lost the 2nd man she truly loved Martin Fowler. This show is so cruel - now we'll never see Stacey & Martin get married."
Fans convinced two legendary characters will return following Martin's death
According to fans, the decision to kill of Martin in general must mean something good is coming but the character also didn't receive a 'proper' exit scene with extended credits - meaning they'll likely make a huge deal out of his funeral.
Starting with the return of Martin's sister Michelle [most recently played by Jenna Russell] and his niece Vicki [Scarlett Alice Johnson].
Writing on social media, one fan said: "I hope Martin has a really special funeral one that is close if not similar to Dot Cotton's or Shakil Kazemi's.
"The whole Square needs to be there and it needs to be a massive celebration of his life. Bring back Bex, Vicki & Michelle as well."
Another said: "After killing off one of soaps best loved characters. I sure hope you have Michelle and Vicki coming back for the funeral."
Someone else wrote: "I was a little bit gutted that Martin didn't get Julia's theme at the end."
Blunder called out by real-life nurse
The medic called out the blunder after Martin Fowler tragically died during the live episode.
Some viewers swooned over Paramedic Skinner (Luke Baker), who attempted to help the beloved character.
On Instagram, Luke shared a message from a real-life nurse - who had spotted a blunder in Martin's final scenes.
She penned: "The challenges of watching @bbceastenders live as a nurse who lives theatre.
"You spend too long wondering why Martin's observations do not change at all."
Fans are calling Ofcom
EastEnders viewers have been left "calling Ofcom" after Martin Fowler's tragic death shocked the nation.
They took to social media in their droves to grieve long-term character Martin after he was crushed by an iron beam.
Fans were put through the wringer during the highly-charged and tearful episode - with some saying the needed to "call in sick" to mourn Martin's death.
One said: "Ringing Ofcom to claim compensation for the EastEnders writers killing off Martin."
A third wrote: "Will be taking compassionate leave from work for at least 10 working days to grieve the dearly departed Martin Fowler."
BBC apology
The BBC was forced to apologise after an EastEnders star said a racial slur live on air.
, who starred as Nasty Nick Cotton, appeared on Radio 4 to reflect on his memories from the set.
John first appeared on the soap in 1985 and was last seen in Walford in 2015.
And he told how different filming is these days compared to the 80s, claiming EastEnders bosses once changed a racial slur in the script during a take.
Repeating the word, Nick said: "I suppose I can say it on air."
But Sarah said: "No, I don't think we can [say that]."
Bizarre moment
EastEnders fans were baffled during the live episode, as Lauren appeared to sniff Sonia’s knickers.
Taking to social media, viewers were quick to question: “Did that really just happen?”
Amongst the drama, fans saw Lauren, played by Jacqueline Jossa, lift up Sonia’s pants for what they thought was a quick sniff, before tossing them to the side.
Lauren had been thrown the pants by Bianca as Sonia prepared to give birth during the live episode.
You can watch the moment here.
Unrecognisable star
An EastEnders legend has been spotted looking unrecognisable, 15 years after their soap death.
EastEnders fans were left devastated last night when it was confirmed Martin Fowler [James Bye] .
The character has been a part of EastEnders since 1985 and James, 40, joined the cast in 2014.
One EastEnders legend who congratulated the soap on its 40th celebrations was the star who used to play Bradley Branning, but he was killed off on the show's 25th anniversary.
Former show star Charlie Clements - who played Bradley Branning - paid tribute to the show Adam Woodyatt steps in
EastEndes' Ian Beale star Adam Woodyatt last night had to move fans out of the road as he tried to leave filming with Jessie Wallace.
Along with the rest of the cast, the legendary soap star, 56, had just taken part in the soap's live broadcast.
However, as Adam and Jessie Wallace, who plays the legendary Kat Slater, left the set in the car, they found themselves surrounded by fans in the road.
Not wanting to put anyone in danger, Adam kindly asked them to move at of the road.
An EastEnders source confirmed this, and told The Sun: "He wasn't screaming - he simply asked fans to move out of the road as it was a dangerous situation for them.
"There were photographers and excited fans there and he didn't want anyone to get hurt.
"He wasn't refusing autographs either - he's always happy to stop and have selfies with fans when they're in a safe situation!"
EastEnders have revealed the Denise & Ravi scenes that will never be shown
The BBC soap opera had a soap-first when they allowed the public to decide the outcome of who Denise would end up with live.
Fans of the show had 24 hours to choose between Jack Branning, played by Scott Maslen, and Ravi Gulati, played by Aaron Thiara.
All three actors rehearsed scenes for whatever the outcome and they were informed just 20 minutes before the live episode began as to which partner had won the vote.
Whilst Jack ultimately won, new snaps show Denise and Ravi embracing one another in rehearsals for what would have been if he'd have won the vote.
the pair could be seen looking closer than ever as they shared a passionate smooch with each other.
Another image showed Denise in the arms of Ravi on his sofa as they enjoyed a tender embrace in what would have been the moments of them finally reuniting.
Credit: X/@soapscoop Fans slam soap bosses
EastEnders fans have ripped into 'cruel and nasty' bosses after history repeated itself.
Martin Fowler died after saving Stacey Slater, but it isn't the first time Stacey has lost the love of her life at the pub, and on the same day.
During the show's 25th anniversary in 2010, Bradley Branning died after falling from the roof of The Vic, after also trying to save Stacey - this time from the police.
Taking to social media, one fan said: "15 years since Stacey lost the last love of her life Bradley Branning now she's lost the 2nd man she truly loved Martin Fowler. This show is so cruel - now we'll never see Stacey & Martin get married."
A second wrote: "I never thought I’d be so sad about a character dying in EastEnders, I never saw this coming. This was just cruel."
A third tweeted: "Bradley Branning and Martin Fowler were Stacey’s true loves, and to kill them both off on the same date is nasty nasty work."
Stacey also lost Bradley Branning on the same day 15 years ago when he fell from the Queen Vic roofCredit: BBC Legends to return?
Martin Fowler's death has prompted EastEnders fans to speculate that two legendary characters will return to the show.
According to fans the decision to kill of Martin in general must mean something good is coming but the character also didn't receive a 'proper' exit scene with extended credits - meaning they'll likely make a huge deal out of his funeral.
Starting with the return of Martin's sister Michelle [most recently played by Jenna Russell] and his niece Vicki [Scarlett Alice Johnson].
Writing on social media, one fan said: "I hope Martin has a really special funeral one that is close if not similar to Dot Cotton's or Shakil Kazemi's.
"The whole Square needs to be there and it needs to be a massive celebration of his life. Bring back Bex, Vicki & Michelle as well."
Another said: "After killing off one of soaps best loved characters. I sure hope you have Michelle and Vicki coming back for the funeral."
Police surround BBC studio
Police surrounded EastEnders' studios to assist with BBC security as devastated fans descended following the tragic anniversary episode.
The Sun can reveal the Beeb beefed up security at the show's studios in Elstree, Borehamwood for the live episode.
Dressed in high-visibility clothing, the extra guards kept devastated fans away from the entrance to the set as they flocked down.
Police were also in attendance, as uniformed Police Community Support Officers helped manage the crowd.
A source said: "PCSO officers came down to the studios to assist BBC security in managing the crowd.
"The crowd was extremely peaceful and wanted to be close to their favourite show on such a huge night and to catch a glimpse of the stars.
"But it was a challenge and health and safety issue for the stars to leave the compound in their cars with fans on the road who kept running towards the vehicles as they left.
"The officers and security worked together to keep the situation under control."
Lacey Turner's proud husband
Lacey Turner's husband has posted a gushing public tribute to her after last night's explosive live 40th anniversary episode.
The actress, who plays Stacey Slater, only gave birth to the couple's third child five weeks ago, yet was back on set for one of the most high-pressured episodes in the soap's history.
And she didn't disappoint, delivering an acting masterclass as her on-screen ex-husband Martin Fowler tragically died after being crushed by a beam.
Taking to Instagram last night, Matt Kay wrote: "I am absolutely bursting with pride for my wife and the incredible job she did at work this evening.
"Her dedication and hard work shone through as she tackled an extremely tough challenge with grace and determination, especially considering she gave birth just five weeks ago."
He called her camaraderie with co-stars and commitment to achieving her goals "inspiring".
"She consistently goes above and beyond," he wrote. "And her passion for what she does is evident in every project she undertakes.
"I am so grateful to have such an amazing partner by my side, and I can't help but admire her strength and resilience. She truly is incredible."
Lacey Turner's husband posted a proud tribute to his wife after her work on the live episodeCredit: Instagram Are you an EastEnders superfan?
After 40 years on screen, there's a lot of storylines, characters and drama to remember.
If you want to test your knowledge and see if you're a Walford wonder, have a go at our fun EastEnders quiz!
You can find it here.
Furious fans
EastEnders viewers have vowed to never watch the soap again after bosses made a "huge mistake" in wiping out a core family from the Square.
Martin Fowler was the first baby born on the BBC soap back in 1985, and was killed off during the live episode on Thursday night.
It meant the end of the Fowler family legacy, and fans were devastated that one of the show's original families is no more.
One person fumed: “How does one complain to Ofcom? Tom will be happy to know I am never watching EastEnders again.”
Another posted: “The whole of the UK right now on their way to complain to Ofcom for killing off our beloved Martin.”
A third wrote: “Martin was the first baby born on EastEnders. He was the first legacy character. He has only been recast once, and his actor gave no indication that he wanted to leave. As a showrunner, you do your best to hold on to characters with as much importance as this.”
Another added: “Killing off Martin kills off a core history of the show. Aside from his kids, there are no more Fowlers left on the Square. Without Hope, Roman, and Michelle, the Fowlers are now all dead as a family.”
EastEnders watch party drama
EastEnders fans screeched in horror as Martin Fowler tragically died - before making a swift exit from a live viewing party.
Die-hard fans of the BBC soap turned out in their droves to the Boxpark bar in Wembley to watch the special episode.
As Martin Fowler died in Stacey Slater's arms, the crowd gathered were left devastated and screeched in terror at the scenes.
The Sun can reveal some fans were so traumatised by the shock death that they left early, despite the event running until 11pm.
The watch party at Boxpark Wembley James Bye's Goodbye
Martin Fowler actor James Bye has bid farewell to EastEnders after his character's devastating death.
"Saying goodbye is not easy, but after 10 years at EastEnders and on the night of the shows epic 40th anniversary – the time felt right," the actor said.
“It's an honour to leave on a story of this magnitude. A huge thank you to all the fans of the show – EastEnders wouldn't be what it is without you – and to the BBC and EastEnders 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."
Heartbreaking.
Another blunder
Viewers of last night's episode were very taken with Paramedic Skinner actor Luke Baker, who demonstrated his commitment to the role by sharing a message from a real-life nurse on Instagram.
She pointed out a blunder in the scene where Paramedic Skinner tries to help Martin Fowler.
"The challenges of watching @bbceastenders live as a nurse who lives theatre," she wrote.
"You spend too long wondering why Martin's observations do not change at all."
Let's have a recap of the 40th anniversary week
Despite all the blunders, I think that the live episode for the 40th anniversary of EastEnders was one for the ages.
It was emotional, tense, and dramatic - you don't get that on Coronation Street!
So before what could be an extremely hard watch next week, lets look back at what we seen.
- Phil tried to commit suicide as Grant, Nigel and Linda talked him off the edge. He was then taken to hospital to get help.
- Kathy was revealed to be the person who tried to kill Cindy.
- Cindy shot Ian in the arm and then tried to kill him by pushing him in front of Reiss' getaway car.
- The car swerved and crashed into the side of the Queen Vic.
- The fire from the wreckage caused an explosion when it reached the stored gas canisters.
- A huge explosion rocked the square and destroyed the pub.
- Many residents were rescued from the wreckage of the boozer.
- This later included Sharon who was saved by Grant after she saw the ghost of her adoptive mother Angie Watts.
- Reiss tried to once again hold Bianca hostage - as well as Lauren and Sonia - before he was killed by a falling bath.
- Sonia went into labour as she became trapped in the Vic.
- Martin tried to save Stacey before a huge metal beam fell on his legs.
- Denise chose Jack Branning to be her future partner.
- As Martin was dying, he declared his love to Stacey and popped the question to her.
- Sonia gave birth to a baby girl who was dangerously close to death.
- She sprung into action just in time to resuscitate her daughter - whom she named Julia.
What a week it has been!Credit: BBC Something is bugging viewers
Earlier, I noted that a number of characters did not appear in the highly-anticipated live episode.
Several characters such as Sharon, Grant, Nigel, and Cindy were completely missing whilst we barely heard from the likes of Elaine, George, Kat and Phil.
It seems viewers on X were feeling the same way as they took to the platform in droves.
During the episode, one viewer sarcastically asked: "Ok this is all great but when will Sharon’s wig make a live appearance may I ask?."
A second fan stated: "But weird Sharon wasn’t in it tbh."
"What I think this #EELive was missing was the ensemble nature that makes big episodes sooo good. No Sharon, Cindy, Grant, Nigel, Elaine, George, one line for Kat, barely anything for Alfie, Ian or Kathy either!", commented a third user on X.
As a fourth asked: "Didn't see Grant in the #EELive episode, where was he?"
And a fifth viewer added: "I guess Grant just disappeared then lol."
Bosses will regret killing off Martin Fowler
Our very own soap editor thinks EastEnders bosses will regret killing off Martin Fowler, the first baby born on the show.
The dramatic live episode made viewers devastated as another love interest of Stacey died, live on air.
The Sun's Carl Greenwood wrote: "The reveal of Kathy being Cindy’s attacker fell flat.
"And then tonight in the live for Martin Fowler to be killed off was probably a very large mistake - especially how it was done."
He added: "It’s not a stretch to say that the idiotic decision to kill off Ronnie and Roxy cost EastEnders millions of fans - look at the ratings.
"To pull off that level of performance is nothing short of outstanding.
"It made a terrible decision bearable - for now at least. EastEnders may regret killing off its most beloved everyman."
You can read Carl's full piece HERE.
We have a scene stealer
We may have a new EastEnders hunk on our hands!
Martin Fowler - played by James Bye - the first baby born in the show - in the live episode for the 40th Anniversary.
Despite the intense scenes before his death, some viewers were completely distracted by one of the paramedics helping Martin.
Paramedic Skinner (Luke Baker) updated Stacey (Lacey Turner) on Martin's condition as he warned her that he was close to death.
One viewer wrote on X: "That paramedic is a bit dishy int he."
Another stated: "Gonna petition to have the hot paramedic be Callum’s new boyfriend."
"Where was the public vote for that paramedic to get his kit off?", asked a third
While a fourth fan wrote: "Who is the hot paramedic."
And a fifth watcher added: "That male paramedic talking to Stacey is sexy."
EastEnders fans completely swooned over the 'sexy' paramedicCredit: BBC