EastEnders fans were left reeling after the shocking and heartbreaking death of Martin Fowler in the show’s dramatic 40th-anniversary episode. As the Queen Vic went up in flames, Martin heroically saved his ex-wife, Stacey Slater, from the explosion’s wreckage—only to be crushed beneath a falling steel beam. In his final moments, he held Stacey close, expressing his enduring love and envisioning a future that would never come to pass. It was a devastating farewell for a character who has been a fixture in Albert Square for decades.

However, in the wake of Martin’s tragic demise, speculation is now mounting that another beloved character may be making a swift exit. Rumors are swirling that Ruby Allen, played by Louisa Lytton, could be the next to leave EastEnders. The possibility of her departure has sparked intense debate among fans, particularly after a telling social media exchange.

Ruby had only recently rekindled her romance with Martin, revealing that they shared a secret child, Roman. This revelation had the potential to reshape their lives, but Martin’s untimely death has thrown everything into turmoil. During the aftermath, viewers witnessed a grief-stricken Ruby kneeling in the plaza, her devastation mirroring that of Stacey’s heart-wrenching cries. This emotional moment, coupled with recent online activity from Louisa Lytton, has fueled speculation that she could be bowing out of the BBC soap.

Lytton shared nostalgic images from her time on EastEnders in an Instagram post celebrating the show’s 40th anniversary. Among the snapshots was a photo of her sharing a lighthearted moment with co-star Jamie Borthwick, who plays Jay Brown. His comment, “You miss me, don’t you?” led some fans to believe that Ruby’s time in Walford might be coming to an end. 

As EastEnders prepares for the fallout of Martin’s death, fans are already predicting Ruby’s exit. Social media has been abuzz with theories, with one viewer posting, “Ruby will leave next—there’s nothing left for her now.” Another echoed this sentiment, writing, “She knows Martin always chose Stacey. It makes sense for Ruby to leave with Roman.” Given that actress Lacey Turner (Stacey Slater) is also due to go on maternity leave, it’s possible that a heartbroken Ruby will make a decision to leave Walford behind for good.

Ruby Allen has had an eventful journey since first appearing on the soap in 2005 as the daughter of infamous gangster Johnny Allen. She left in 2006, returned in 2018, and departed once more in 2021 before making her most recent comeback. With her character once again at a crossroads, it remains to be seen whether Ruby will stay and fight for a new future in Walford or walk away from the Square and the painful memories of her past.

The explosive 40th-anniversary episode of EastEnders was a game-changer, delivering high-stakes drama that has left viewers reeling. Not only did it see the tragic loss of Martin Fowler, but it also set the stage for further dramatic exits and potential returns. Fans are now eagerly awaiting what’s next, including how the show will handle Martin’s funeral and whether iconic characters from his past—like his niece Vicki or sister Michelle—will make a comeback to pay their respects.

As Walford grapples with the aftermath of one of its most emotional storylines in years, the question remains: Will Ruby Allen be the next to say goodbye to Albert Square? With speculation running high, fans will have to stay tuned to EastEnders to find out what lies ahead for Ruby and the residents of Walford.