EastEnders star James Bye reunites with former co-star in career update months after Martin Fowler’s death
EastEnders star James Bye is joining forces with one of his former colleagues in a major career update following Martin Fowler’s death.
Fans of the BBC soap were left devastated back in February when the first baby born on Albert Square lost his life in the 40th anniversary live episode.
Martin was initially played by Jon Peyton-Price when the character’s parents Pauline and Arthur welcomed him into the world during EastEnders debut year of 1985.
Following Jon leaving the role in 1996, James Alexandrou took on Martin’s journey into adulthood over the next 11 years before the character left Albert Square for seven years.
Returning to 2013, with James Bye playing him, Martin featured in a number of major storylines, including faking his death, surviving a bus crushing him and finding love with Stacey.
Sadly Martin died after having his legs crushed by a steel beam due to falling debris in the Queen Vic explosion, entering cardiac arrest when the beam was lifted by paramedics.
Shortly after his exit scenes aired, it was announced that James would be playing the role of Mr Darcy in the theatrical world premiere of Death Comes to Pemberley.
The stage adaptation of PD James’s sequel to Pride and Prejudice, follows Mr Darcy and his wife Elizabeth as they continue to be loved-up following the conclusion of Jane Austen’s classic novel.
Following a successful tour around the UK, it has now been revealed that James is the latest star taking on 2:22 A Ghost Story.
The Danny Robbins play, which delves into the questions around the presence of the paranormal in a new couple’s home, has become a sensation since its initial premiere back in 2021.
Over the years, the likes of Strictly Come Dancing star Stacey Dooley, Kevin Clifton, Max Branning actor Jake Wood, Laura Whitmore and former I’m A Celebrity winner Giovanna Fletcher have all featured in various versions of the play.
Also starring in the play is Get Millie Back’s Shvorne Marks and Natalie Casey, who recently returned to Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks as Carol Groves this year after 25 years away.
Fans will be delighted to know that James is reuniting with Gary Lucy, who played Danny Pennant on EastEnders between 2012 and 2014.
A post on the show’s official Instagram page reads: “Confirming the news INTRODUCING OUR 2026 SAM AND BEN
“@jimmybye and Gary Lucy will be taking #222AGhostStory across the UK through 2026! Joined by @shvornemarks returning as Jenny and @natalielauracasey as Lauren.”
Prior to leaving Walford for Marbella, Gary’s character Danny was best known for his love triagnle with Syed Masood and Christian Clarke, as well as his romance with Johnny Carter.