EastEnders viewers have been left heartbroken as Martin Fowler died in the soap's live episode tonight, prompting star James Bye to break his silence on departing the beloved BBC soap. 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." Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw said: “It’s incredibly sad to say goodbye to James, who has been a much loved loyal company member for 10 years. James’ performance in tonight’s live episode was nothing short of outstanding and one that I know will touch so many of you watching at home due to his loveable portrayal of Martin Fowler, which has made him a firm favourite amongst the viewers. "When discussing James’ exit, we knew that we needed to give Martin Fowler the big explosive storyline that his character deserved. To leave the show in such an emotional storyline, during a live episode is something incredibly courageous to do as an actor, and one that I’m sure will cement itself in EastEnders’ history. I would like to thank James for everything he’s given to EastEnders, and although we will all miss him here at Elstree, he will always remain a member of the EastEnders family and we wish him the best for the future.” Martin Fowler first arrived in Walford on 30th July 1985, making him the first baby born in EastEnders to parents, Pauline and Arthur. The shocking episode unveiled the harrowing moments as Martin, trapped under a heavy metal beam, fought for his life while Stacey Slater looked on. After months of avoiding their feelings, the pair finally admitted their true love for one and other. However, disaster struck as they were about to escape – when the beam fell from the ceiling. Martin managed to push Stacey out of harm's way, but he couldn't avoid the falling debris, which crushed his legs. Thursday's live episode of EastEnders began with Martin in a dire situation, with his death seemingly imminent. Stacey stayed by his side, calling for help as he was pinned down by the beam and screaming in pain. As the episode progressed, Martin suddenly stopped moving and lost consciousness, leading to a panicked reaction from Stacey. He was given morphine to manage the pain, and his breathing became erratic, but Stacey promised to stay with him. In a touching moment, Martin confessed his love for Stacey once more, expressing his desire to never be apart from her again and even proposing marriage. However, paramedics warned Stacey that Martin was at risk of developing crush syndrome, which could lead to kidney problems and cardiac arrest. Realising something was wrong, Martin delivered a heartfelt speech to her. Tragically, just as they managed to free him, Martin went into cardiac arrest. The episode ended with his heartbreaking death, with Stacey crying out in devastation, leaving fans at home in shock at the death of such an iconic character.