Martin Kemp Confirms No Return to EastEnders as Shady Steve Owen
EastEnders Fans Hopeful for a Comeback
Martin Kemp, beloved for his iconic portrayal of Steve Owen in EastEnders, has finally addressed fan speculation about a possible return to Albert Square. Steve Owen, the scheming club owner and bad boy of Walford, captivated audiences from 1988 until his dramatic exit in 2002. Fans have long wondered if the charismatic character could ever reappear—alive or in flashback—especially given the soap’s history of resurrecting past favorites.
However, during a recent red carpet event at the Design Museum’s Blitz Club exhibition, Kemp made it clear that Steve Owen will not be returning.
A Star-Studded Evening at the Blitz Club
The event was a throwback celebration of 1980s pop culture, featuring legends like Boy George, Glen Matlock of the Sex Pistols, and Spandau Ballet. Kemp, who attended as a member of Spandau Ballet, looked as charming as ever, his striking white hair catching the attention of attendees and fans alike.
During the evening, London World had the chance to interview Kemp, asking the questions fans have been waiting years to hear answers to—including the fate of Steve Owen on EastEnders.
Steve Owen’s Legacy on Albert Square
As EastEnders viewers will remember, Steve Owen was the ultimate soap villain. He first made waves at the launch of his club, E20, where drama quickly unfolded, including the shocking murder of his former lover, Saskia. Over his 14-year run, Owen’s storylines were a rollercoaster of business scheming, romance, and betrayal, cementing his place as one of Walford’s most memorable characters.
His time on the show came to a fiery end in 2002 when he perished in a dramatic car explosion. While soap operas are no strangers to shocking resurrections—think Kathy Beale—the chance of Steve Owen returning has always been slim.
Martin Kemp Sets the Record Straight
Kemp addressed the speculation with a mix of humor and finality. When asked if he’d ever step back onto Albert Square, he responded with a smile:
“There’s no chance of me going back to EastEnders. I had a great time there, but that’s about it.”
While fans may be disappointed, Kemp’s answer closes the door on the possibility of Steve Owen’s return—at least for now. Despite the character’s lasting popularity, Kemp seems content to leave his time on the soap behind, focusing instead on his music, acting projects, and public appearances.
Life Beyond EastEnders
Martin Kemp’s career spans far beyond his soap days. A founding member of Spandau Ballet, Kemp has enjoyed decades of success in music and entertainment. At the Blitz Club event, he also reflected on the start of his career and the influence of the club scene, which shaped not only his music but also the cultural backdrop of 1980s London.
Fans can still enjoy Kemp’s vibrant presence at public events and in the media, even if Steve Owen will remain a part of EastEnders history rather than its present.
What This Means for Fans
While Steve Owen’s dramatic storylines will live on in classic episodes, the character’s narrative has reached a permanent conclusion. Kemp’s confirmation gives fans closure while allowing new generations of EastEnders characters to take center stage.
For those eager for nostalgia, reruns and clips of Steve Owen’s most infamous moments remain a reminder of his cunning, charisma, and dramatic flair. And though Kemp isn’t returning to Walford, his influence on the show—and the hearts of fans—remains undeniable.