An EastEnders star has said "it's been an honour" to have been involved in the show after his character was killed off in last night's live episode (Thursday, February 20).

James Bye, who played Martin Fowler on the BBC soap, had his life hanging in the balance after the conclusion of Wednesday night's (February 19) hour-long special for thr 40th anniversary week.

After being trapped in the Queen Vic pub after an explosion with Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) they declared their love for each other.

However, this happiness was short-lived as Martin was then trapped underneath a falling beam and later died from his injuries.

Speaking to the BBC on his dramatic exit, James Bye said: "Saying goodbye is not easy, but after 10 years at EastEnders and on the night of the show's epic 40th anniversary – the time felt right. 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. It's time to look forward, and I'm incredibly excited for what the future holds. RIP Martin Fowler."

Martin Fowler first arrived in Walford on July 30, 1985, making him the first baby born in EastEnders to parents, Pauline and Arthur.

Bye had played the role since 2014 and had become a bit of a fan-favourite among the viewership.

EastEnders fans react to death of Martin Fowler

Plenty of EastEnders fans took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to share their thoughts about Martin Fowler being killed off.

One person wrote: "Another scene that broke me well done to all the amazing cast and crew you totally smashed it - but Lacey and James were the main stars tonight."

Another shared: "The first baby born on #EastEnders Martin Fowler is officially dead. The definition of a legacy character and I can’t actually believe he’s gone.

"Round of applause to James Bye. It’s hard to be a recast but when I think of Martin Fowler I’ll think of him."

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A third wrote: "will be taking compassionate leave from work for at least 10 working days to grieve the dearly departed martin fowler".

Another gushed about the character, saying: "Arguably the best recast in soap history.

"Completely changed Martin as a character both in personality and acting. When I think of perfect recasts, I’ll always have James Bye as the measuring stick."