EastEnders fans begged for the show not to kill off a beloved star after a dramatic ending to last night's 40th anniversary episode (Wednesday, February 19).

Following the explosion at the Queen Vic pub various characters were attempting to make their way out of the rubble.

Two of those were Martin Fowler (James Bye) and Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) who were going through quite a personal storyline of their own.

Martin helped multiple residents escape the aftermath of the explosion, but could not bear the thought of leaving Stacey alone.

With that, he made sure Ruby Allen (Louisa Lytton) was safe, and then went back to Stacey, The Metro reports.

In the end, Martin ended up expressing his feelings for Stacey before pushing her to safety as a beam fell.

It landed on him, with Martin screaming in pain before the episode dramatically ended.

EastEnders fans beg show not to kill off Martin Fowler

Fans of the BBC soap took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to react to the shocking ending and hoped Martin could make it out alive.

One person wrote: "I really hope Martin survives. I'd prefer it of both of them went together so that at least they have each other, rather than Stacey having to live without Martin and with the regret of keeping him in there."

Another shared: "Sorry, but Martin isn't gonna make it. The way Lily stopped and told him she loved him before she got out, that was her saying goodbye."

A third posted: "Nooo Martin NEEDS to make it out safely, he & Stacey BELONG TOGETHER."

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Meanwhile, another added: "I really REALLY hope Martin survives.. but I just don't think there's a big chance right now".

One person simply stated: "Don’t kill Martin Fowler!!"

Another dramatically wrote in all capitals: "EASTENDERS DONT U DARE TAKE STACEY AND MARTIN AWAY FROM ME".

EastEnders continues at 7.30pm on BBC One on Thursday, February 20.