Martin Fowler will "sow a couple of wild oats" on his return to ‘EastEnders’.
James Bye stars as the fruit and veg seller on the BBC soap – replacing James Alexandrou in the role – and has revealed he’s hoping to get some romantic storylines following the collapse of Martin’s relationship to Sonia (Natalie Cassidy).
James explained: "Martin and Sonia were together for years and when they got married he was only 19. I wouldn’t say he’s a ladykiller now, but he’ll sow a couple of wild oats."
And James – who returns this week for the fifth wedding of his cousin Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) – thinks Stacey Branning, played by Lacey Turner, would be the ideal love match.
He told The Sun newspaper: "Stacey would be great and Lacey is arguably one of the best actresses on the show, so if that happens I’ll be extremely happy."
By contrast, James insists there’s no chance of Martin and Sonia rekindling their romance, despite having a daughter together.
He shared: "As much as Martin would want that family back for his daughter Rebecca’s sake, they’re not in love with each other any more."
What’s more, James says he’s pleased to have a certain degree of "freedom" with the character, because he’s not been seen on the show since 2007.
He explained: "Martin’s got so much backstory but with him being away for seven or eight years, it gives me some freedom."
James Bye says Martin Fowler will ‘sow wild oates’
