James Bye looks worlds away from EastEnders’ Martin Fowler after landing a new role just days on from his soap exit.
The actor’s final scenes aired last Thursday when the character died following the Queen Vic explosion.
In his first post-soap role, James will play Mr Darcy in a production of Death Comes To Pemberley, which is based on the novel by P.D James.
The show will begin at The Mill at Sonning from 1 May to 28 June. It will then then tour around the UK.
As of James prepares to tread the boards, pictures of him as Mr Darcy have been released, including one of him with co-star Jamie-Rose Duke, who will play Elizabeth Darcy.
‘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,’ James told What’s On Stage.
James’ final EastEnders scenes saw the beloved fruit and veg trader trapped under a beam in the barrel store of The Vic, as he and ex-wife Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) tried to escape.
As Stacey waited for the frame to get removed, she sat and spoke to Martin about their life. They eventually agreed to reunite and get married, concluding they’re meant to be together.
In a classic soap twist, just as Stacey and Martin smiled about their future, it was ripped away from them. As the beam was removed, Martin suffered Crush Syndrome, which occurred as a result of the toxins flooding his body.
It led to Martin’s death, and a harrowing scream from Stacey that was enough to allow the characters outside to realise what had happened.
‘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’, James said last week.
‘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.’
