EastEnders‘ ratings have risen slightly thanks to the show’s big live anniversary special.
Last night’s big episode, which aired the outcome of Denise Fox’s love triangle decision as well as Martin Fowler’s tragic death, capped off the show’s big 40th anniversary week.
Broadcast now reports that the half-hour episode drew in an average of 3.8 million viewers, surpassing the 3.4 million viewers from Wednesday’s episode and the 2.8m people who watched Tuesday’s instalment.
It was slightly behind last Christmas’ first episode, which took in 4 million viewers, though it beat that day’s second episode, which brought in 2.8 million viewers.
However, the 40th celebrations were quite far behind the 30th anniversary equivalent a decade ago, with the two episodes at the time drawing 10.8 and 10.3 million viewers.
The latest live episode saw Martin pass away after being trapped under a beam following the Queen Vic explosion, the character suffering a cardiac arrest when paramedics attempted to remove the weight.
Fans were left “traumatised” by the scenes, while Martin actor James Bye has since spoken out about his exit, saying “the time felt right” to leave and that it was “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.”
