Lacey Turner, who plays Stacey Slater in the long-running BBC soap, opened up to podcast hosts Natalie Cassidy and Joanna Page after a dramatic time on the show
Lacey Turner has revealed that she is still heartbroken and tearful over the exit of a beloved co-star on EastEnders.
In an episode of the Off the Telly podcast, Lacey opened up about the death of EastEnders legend Martin Fowler, played by James Bye, during the 40th anniversary live episode of the soap.
Martin passed away after an explosion in the iconic Queen Vic led to his legs being crushed by a metal beam, and he ultimately died in Stacey Slater’s arms as residents gathered outside.
However, it would appear that the emotional episode also made an impact on his co-star in real life, as Lacey (who plays Stacey) told podcast hosts Natalie Cassidy, who plays Sonia in EastEnders, and Gavin and Stacey actress Joanna Page that she hadn’t stopped crying ever since.
Martin Fowler, played by James Bye, died during the 40th anniversary live episode (Image: Getty Images)
After being congratulated on her performance, Lacey said: “I’m still trying to get over it. It’s so overwhelming but yeah, I mean, I don’t know. It was crazy. It was just such a lovely thing to be a part of and the camaraderie of that place and the adrenaline.
“And so it was pretty epic but bittersweet for me, so it was a bit, like, I don’t really know. There isn’t an emotion for how I feel. I’m still sort of like, ‘Eurgh’.”
When asked about the death of Martin Fowler, she added: “It’s so weird because it feels like, you know, he’s actually died. Isn’t it, Nat? It’s so weird. I haven’t stopped crying.”
Natalie weighed in, saying that when a character usually leaves the show, it’s not so much of a secret. They have a chance to become accustomed to the idea and they may pop back, but this was final.
James reportedly doesn’t have plans to step out of the limelight, however, as he’s now set to star as Mr Darcy in a theatre production of Death Comes To Pemberley.
The 41-year-old has played the much-loved Martin since 2014, with the character being born in the first year that EastEnders was broadcast back in 1985, according to the BBC.
Speaking about his exit, James said: “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. 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.”
