JAMES Bye broke his silence today after getting the boot from Strictly Come Dancing over the weekend.
The 38-year-old, who has played Martin Fowler in the BBC One soap since 2014, found himself in the dreaded dance-off against singer and broadcaster Fleur East following a Halloween-inspired live show.
EastEnders James Bye thanked his fans after getting axed from Strictly
The star was very emotional on last night’s show
Speaking today after getting the axe, James said: “I have had some incredible support over the weekend and it has been a crazy couple of months and I just want to quickly say thank you to every single one of you who took the time to either vote for Amy or I or just sent us a message.
“I think that sometimes people think we don’t read the messages but I can promise you I read every single of them and there are times when your messages helped me get through those tough days so I want to thank you again for that.”
The actor continued in an Instagram video: “I also want to say a massive thank you to my family. Obviously you guys don’t get to see a lot of that, the support from behind the scenes is what gets everyone through this process because it is a full on thing to do.”
His wife Victoria then entered the room and he said: “This is my wife Victoria for those of you who don’t know, who was basically a solo parent for my entire Strictly journey so thank you sweetheart.
“Because obviously without you, I wouldn’t have been able to do it and all the grandparents out there. Obviously we had a lot of help. Victoria was supporting me from the sidelines every single week.”
Victoria was heard saying she got a “numb bum” watching him, but insisted it was worth it.
James and Victoria are parents to Edward, aged eight, Louis, six, and Hugo three.
On Sunday night James’ pro partner was Amy was very emotional as she told him: “You came on here to show your boys they can throw themselves into any challenge in life, and you are the best role model they could ever have as their daddy.
“I am so proud of you.”
James was partnered with Amy Dowden on the show
James thanked his wife Victoria for her support
