EastEnders fans have reacted to the death of Martin Fowler in the 40th anniversary live episode, with many left “traumatised” by the scene.

Viewers saw Martin Fowler (James Bye) pass away after being hit by some heavy debris in the aftermath of the Vic explosion. Fowler had gone in to rescue ex-partner Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) but was struck down by a beam.

Martin was able to regain consciousness and was being looked after by paramedics, but when the medics removed the beam, complications arose, causing Martin to have a cardiac arrest and die, while a devastated Stacey watched on.

Following the special episode, many viewers went online to share their reactions to the fan favourite’s passing.

“Me ringing the action line because I am f***ing traumatised at that ending #EastEnders #EELive,” wrote one X user, while another said: “I will NEVER forgive @bbceastenders for this.”

Some fans commented on how Martin’s death had similarities with a prior EastEnders Live episode to mark the soap’s 25th anniversary back in 2010. In the episode, Stacey’s previous husband Bradley Branning fell to his death after slipping on the roof of The Vic.

“If I had a nickel for every time Stacey Slater’s lost her dorky husband during an #EastEnders live episode, I’d have two nickels,” wrote one fan.

This was similarly echoed by another, more emotional user, who said: “THEY DID IT AGAIN TO AR STACE FIRST BRADLEY NOW MARTIN.”

For this year’s live episode, some venues across the country hosted special viewing parties, including one at Box Park near Wembley Stadium.

“Everyone’s live reaction to Martin dying right now at Wembley. Safe to say half of us are in tears #Eastenders #EELive,” wrote one fan at the event.

Many viewers also praised Lacey Turner’s performance online, as she said an emotional goodbye to Martin.

“That last shot of Stacey holding Martin I’m sobbing,” wrote one user on X.

Another fan also applauded Lacey for giving such a moving performance after the actor recently gave birth in real life: “So you’re telling me Lacey Turner filmed a stunt heavily pregnant, gave birth, came back a few weeks later and carried a live episode?

“Where’s this woman’s pride of Britain award? Get her a knighthood pronto! #EastEnders #EELive.”

The live episode concluded the soap’s 40th anniversary week, with audiences having to wait until next week to see the aftermath of Martin’s death.