In a stunning twist that feels ripped straight from a soap script itself, EastEnders legend James Bye has made waves with a complete image overhaul—just months after his heart-wrenching exit as Martin Fowler during the BBC soap’s explosive 40th anniversary special. And when we say “explosive,” we mean it literally. The Queen Vic went up in flames, and with it, Martin’s story reached its tragic end. But while Walford mourns one of its beloved fruit and veg men, James is already stepping into a new role—one that couldn’t be more different.

James, now 41, portrayed Martin Fowler for a decade, evolving the character from a background market seller to a man at the heart of Walford’s most dramatic plotlines. His departure in February rocked longtime fans. The character was killed off in a storyline that left viewers reeling: crushed under rubble after the Queen Vic explosion, Martin died from crush syndrome—a silent killer that delivered a shocking gut punch amid the celebrations. As the community rallied in grief and chaos, Martin’s final moments marked the end of an era.

Reflecting on his departure, James shared heartfelt sentiments: “Saying goodbye is not easy, but after 10 years… the time felt right.” Thanking the fans and the production team, he signed off with a poignant tribute to the character that defined his career: “This fruit and veg man will always hold a special place in my heart… RIP Martin Fowler.”

But James Bye’s next act is already in motion—and fans may need a double take to recognize him. The actor recently stepped out onto the red carpet for the London premiere of Thunderbolt, alongside his wife of 13 years, Victoria. Gone was the scruffy, everyday Walford look. In its place? A slicked-back hairstyle, bold sideburns, and a look oozing 19th-century gentleman. His appearance, while jarring to EastEnders fans, makes perfect sense in context.

Why the transformation? James is preparing to play none other than Mr. Darcy—yes, that Mr. Darcy—in a new stage adaptation of Death Comes to Pemberley. The production, based on P.D. James’ gripping sequel to Pride and Prejudice, will run from May 1 to June 28, and promises to take audiences back into the world of Austen… with a murder mystery twist.

Death Comes to Pemberley isn’t your typical period drama. Set six years after Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s happily-ever-after, the story plunges into darkness as a death on the estate forces the couple into a whirlwind of suspicion, scandal, and secrets. With James now stepping into the role of Darcy, he trades the cobbled streets of Walford for the candle-lit halls of Pemberley. And judging by his dedication to the aesthetic, he’s throwing himself completely into the character.

Fans are already buzzing online over his metamorphosis, with some comparing it to an actor in full method mode. It’s a bold move—trading high-stakes soap drama for the simmering restraint of Austen-era suspense—but one that signals James’s ambition to expand beyond the small screen.

Meanwhile, back in the real world, James’s wife Victoria has been candid about the shift in their day-to-day life post-EastEnders. In a light-hearted video posted to social media, she joked, “I’m just not used to it, to be honest! For years, he’s got up and gone to work and now he’s at home all the time.” She added with a laugh, “He’s getting in my way… He’s everywhere.” Still, she admitted it’s been “lovely” to have him around before rehearsals begin.

The return to the stage marks a new chapter—not just for James Bye, but for fans watching his career evolve in real-time. It’s clear he’s not afraid to break from typecasting and dive into roles that challenge and surprise. From a hard-working market man caught in Walford’s never-ending cycle of betrayal and redemption, to one of literature’s most iconic and complex romantic heroes, James is showing range—and a desire to keep fans guessing.

As Death Comes to Pemberley gears up for its highly anticipated debut, it’s hard not to wonder: could this be the beginning of a brand-new leading-man era for James Bye? Whatever lies ahead, one thing is certain—Martin Fowler may be gone, but James Bye is just getting started.