EastEnders soap icon Lacey Turner, known for her fiery portrayal of Stacey Slater, has finally opened up about the shocking exit of her long-time co-star James Bye. It seems like it’s not just the viewers who are devastated by Martin’s departure; Turner’s emotional response has only added to the bittersweet farewell. So, what did she have to say about her on-screen soulmate leaving Walford? Read on to find out!

EastEnders Star Opens Up About Martin’s Departure!

EastEnders legend Lacey Turner has spoken about James Bye’s emotional departure from the show after Martin’s tragic death. Viewers know during the explosive 40th anniversary episodes, the Walford vegetable trader was trapped under a metal beam and he reconciled with the love of his life, Stacey. However, when paramedics arrived and helped Martin, he faced a heart attack and passed away.

This news broke the hearts of many viewers, as the fan-favorite character left the BBC soap after 10 big years. Bye made his debut on the show as a kid in 1985 and starred in more than 1,000 episodes. And now, Lacey Turner took to Instagram and shared an old picture from 2015 of Martin and Stacey. She also gave James a heartfelt tribute in the caption and wrote, “There are no words to describe how I feel!”

She continued: “My best mate, a proper partner in crime! We laughed everyday from the very beginning until the very end and for that I will be forever grateful! Here’s to you @jimmybye! You are one of a kind mate! Thank you for Martin Fowler, what a bloke!” The legendary Martin actor also commented on Turner’s post, “Couldn’t have done a day without you G! Todd and Winnie 4 eva.”

It looks like Lacey and James share a bond beyond soap, too, and thus, Bye wanted to tell the actress about leaving on her own. He said, “I told the executive producer that, well, after he made the decision, you have to let me tell Lacey.” For more such updates on EastEnders.