Martin Fowler was dramatically killed off during EastEnders' live episode to mark its 40th anniversary as actor James Bye has revealed why his beloved character had to die

EastEnders fans are in shock after one of the show's most iconic characters died in tonight's live episode. Martin Fowler - who was the first baby to be born in the show - died after proposing to Stacey Slater. Viewers watched in horror while paramedics fought to save Martin who had been crushed by a metal beam.

As EastEnders fans sob in front of their TVs, Martin Fowler’s death has impacted a nation. And now actor James Bye has revealed to fans why he has left EastEnders and why Martin had to die as he confirms he quit the show as it ‘felt right’.