Stephen Aaron-Sipple, known for portraying Mark Fowler Jr. in EastEnders, has left his position with the London Fire Brigade after a decade of service. This move follows his recent casting in the popular BBC soap, where he brings the character back to Walford amid dramatic storylines.
Mark Fowler Jr.’s Chaotic Return to Walford
Mark Fowler Jr. reappeared in Walford on January 22, stepping into a role once played by Ned Porteous from Emmerdale. Since his arrival, battered and bloodied, the character has stirred up significant turmoil. As the son of Grant Mitchell (played by Ross Kemp) and Michelle Fowler (Susan Tully), Mark finds himself deeply involved with a criminal drugs gang and under suspicion as a police informant.
In recent episodes, Mark turns to his uncle, Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), for help in uncovering the true grass, whom viewers know to be Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara). He has also appeared alongside his sister, Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig), misleading her by saying he returned to support her during court proceedings related to Joel Marshall (Max Murray).
A Decade of Service and a New Chapter
Beyond his acting commitments, Stephen has openly discussed his firefighting background. On January 30, he shared a poignant Instagram post detailing his journey, accompanied by photos from his time on the job.
In the post, Stephen reflected: “Quick story…10 years ago I was a struggling actor….my daughter was born, and my family needed stability, a word not used very often in the acting world….I was very lucky to be able to fulfil another childhood dream and became a London Firefighter.”
He continued: “A job that has taught me so much, about myself, about life, about loss, about gratitude….it gave me a home away from home with some of the greatest, bravest and most giving people in the world….we experienced together, we rescued together, we mourned together, we laughed through the tough times and were shoulders through the tougher times.”
Stephen added: “Although I move onto the next chapter of my journey, to be able to tell stories, hopefully to entertain and intrigue people with my performances….I say goodbye to the place that helped me become the person I am. F32 Stoke Newington Red Watch. I Love you Brothers and Sisters, I hope I always make you proud. FF Sipple Fall out.”
Wave of Support from Fans and Colleagues
The announcement drew immediate praise from friends and fans. One supporter commented: “You’re one of the best men I know, deserve every success in life.”
Another recalled a shared memory: “I made the cut! What a day that was, hey. London was on fire. Have the best time on your next adventure, you’re going to smash it.”
A third fan expressed admiration: “Well done brother! Awesome to watch your journey,” while someone else enthused: “Oh my God, that’s amazing, here you are now, Shining star, well deserved mate, all the love.”
Further messages included: “Congratulations, Stephen! Best of luck!” and “Nice one bro! From church Street to Albert square. Good luck brother.”
EastEnders airs weekdays on BBC One and iPlayer.
