The fallout from EastEnders’ shocking 40th-anniversary live episode continues, leaving Walford in mourning after the devastating death of Martin Fowler.
The emotional aftermath is set to unfold in upcoming episodes, as Sonia Fowler struggles with the heartbreaking task of informing her daughter,
Bex Fowler, about her father’s untimely demise.
During Thursday’s milestone episode, Martin met a tragic end when a steel beam collapsed on him in the wreckage of The Queen Vic.
His final moments were spent with Stacey Slater, his long-time love, who cradled him as he passed away.
Meanwhile, oblivious to the tragedy, Sonia was giving birth to her baby daughter, Julia, in the very same pub.
Now, in a first-look clip from Monday’s episode, Sonia is seen making an emotional phone call to Bex, who has been living away from Walford since 2020. Fans are left wondering whether this devastating news will bring Bex back home for her father’s funeral.
Sonia’s Emotional Call to Bex
Still recovering in her hospital bed after childbirth, Sonia (Natalie Cassidy) gathers the strength to call her daughter Bex (last played by Jasmine Armfield). In a heart-wrenching moment, she carefully asks if Bex is with someone, clearly wanting to ensure her daughter has support before she delivers the tragic news.
“I’m not snooping, Bex,” Sonia says softly. “It’s just… I need to tell you something, and it would be really lovely if there was a friend with you right now.”
As the scene shifts to show Martin’s grieving loved ones—Ruby Allen and Zack Hudson included—Sonia’s emotions begin to overwhelm her. Holding back tears, she finally breaks the devastating news:
“Oh God, I really wish I was there with you now, darling. It’s about your dad… There was an accident, and he died.”
The weight of the moment is evident as Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer) and Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) stand by Sonia’s side, tears in their eyes. Lauren cradles baby Julia while Sonia reassures Bex that the news is real, heartbreakingly adding, “He died, and I’m so sorry.”
Will Bex Return to Walford?
Bex was last seen on EastEnders in 2020 when she decided to take a gap year to travel the world before attending Oxford University. Since then, she has remained off-screen, but Martin’s sudden death could be the catalyst for her long-awaited return.
While the show has yet to confirm whether Bex will physically return to Albert Square, fans are already speculating that she will come home to say goodbye to her father. If she does, it could open up new storylines for her character, particularly in reconnecting with her mother and the rest of the Fowler family.
Another Fowler Family Member Returns
Even if Bex’s return remains uncertain, EastEnders has officially confirmed that another key member of the Fowler family will be making a comeback. Vicki Fowler, Martin’s niece, will return to Walford after more than two decades away to attend her uncle’s funeral.
Vicki, the daughter of Michelle Fowler and Den Watts, was last seen in 2004 when she moved to Australia with Spencer Moon to run a bar. Now, she will make a dramatic return alongside her partner, Ross (played by The Bill and Holby City star Alex Walkinshaw), and his son Joel (Max Murray).
In a significant casting change, Vicki will now be portrayed by Rain Dogs actress Alice Haig, taking over from Scarlett Alice Johnson, who played the character during her last stint in the early 2000s.
The Impact of Martin’s Death on Walford
Martin Fowler’s shocking death has shaken the residents of Albert Square, particularly his closest friends and family. Stacey Slater is left devastated after losing him just moments after he confessed his true feelings for her. His partner Ruby Allen and their son Roman will also struggle to cope with his sudden loss.
Sonia, despite dealing with the joy of welcoming her newborn daughter, is now faced with overwhelming grief as she navigates life without Martin. With Bianca and Lauren by her side, she will have the difficult task of processing both the arrival of her baby and the death of her childhood sweetheart.
Meanwhile, Cindy Beale’s indirect involvement in the accident that led to Martin’s death will likely cause friction among Walford residents. Having pushed Ian Beale into the road, which resulted in Reiss Colwell crashing his van into The Queen Vic, Cindy may find herself facing blame and backlash from those who loved Martin.
What’s Next for EastEnders?
As Walford prepares for Martin’s funeral, the return of Vicki Fowler and the possibility of Bex coming back will bring even more emotional scenes. The Fowler family will be forced to come together to say goodbye, while other residents of Albert Square deal with their own grief and struggles in the aftermath of the explosion.
With so many unanswered questions—will Bex return? How will Vicki’s arrival shake things up? What will be the fallout of Cindy’s actions?—EastEnders fans are in for an emotional rollercoaster in the weeks ahead. One thing is certain: Walford will never be the same again.
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