He might have just left our screens on EastEnders, but Martin Fowler actor Andy Bye has been turning heads at the Thunderbolts premier with a bold new look as he attended with his wife
EastEnders fans were heartbroken when Martin Fowler actor James Bye said farewell to the show, but he’s appeared with a bold new look at the premiere of the new Marvel Thunderbolts film.
The soap star posed with his stunning wife Victoria at the event at Cineworld Leicester Square to celebrate the latest Marvel film, and he was sporting some sideburns which even Wolverine would be proud of. He played Martin in the show from from 2014, until he was killed off for the special 40th anniversary episode after an emotional exchange with Stacey Slater.
He looked relaxed as he posed with Victoria for a few snaps, sporting a black floral shirt and linen jacket, but it was his new hairstyle that has got people talking. James looked miles away from Martin’s rough and ready EastEnders style, with a slicked back hairdo and some serious sideburns on display, possibly for a new role.
It was recently revealed that he will be starring as the dashing Mr Darcy in the theatrical world premiere of Death Comes To Pemberley, which might explain the mutton chop sideburns. Or, he could just be trying a bold new style, who knows.
When news of his departure from EastEnders broke, James said: “I am leaving EastEnders on an absolute high after the explosive live 40th anniversary episode. After a decade of gritty storylines it’s going to be quite a switch to put on period clothes as one of literature’s romantic leading men, but I can’t wait for this new chapter to begin.”
Death Comes To Pemberley is a murder-mystery continuation to Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, and joining James in the cast will be Endeavour star Sean Rigby as Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Jamie-Rose Duke will make her stage debut playing James’ on-stage wife Elizabeth Darcy. This new direction isn’t Bye’s only source of income though, as he has also turned to recording personal messages.
Fans of James can shell out £51 for a personalised message from him, lasting an average one and a half minutes. He will also promote businesses with an official endorsement, but that’ll cost you a princely £1,778 instead.
A source said: “James signing up for Cameo at the height of his popularity is a no-brainer, it’s easy cash for him to make before his next acting role. He joined the platform on the week of his exit from EastEnders and has already been inundated with requests.”
James’ talent agency Revolution Talent shared his good news on social media, writing: “James Bye will star as Mr Darcy in the theatrical world premiere of Death Comes To Pemberley. The production will open at The Mill at Sonning from 1st May – 28th June, before touring 8 venues across the UK.”
Fans were also left swooning when they were treated to a first-look sneak peek of James in costume as the romantic icon. James also signed off from his iconic Walford role by writing: “”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.”
He added: “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.”
