The heart of Walford is still reeling from the devastating loss of Martin Fowler, and now, the actress who portrayed his beloved wife, Stacey Slater, Lacey Turner, has finally spoken out amidst the on-screen tragedy – while also bravely addressing the very real pressures she faces off-screen as a mother navigating the ongoing cost of living crisis. For viewers, Stacey and Martin’s enduring love story, with its many ups and downs, has been a cornerstone of EastEnders for years. The gut-wrenching scenes following the catastrophic Queen Vic explosion, which saw Martin’s life tragically cut short despite the desperate efforts of paramedics and Stacey’s tearful bedside vigil, have left a palpable sense of grief hanging over Albert Square. Now, as Stacey grapples with unimaginable loss on screen, Lacey Turner, the talented actress who brings her to life, has offered a poignant glimpse into her own world, balancing the demands of a high-profile career with the joys and challenges of raising her three young children: Dusty, Trilby, and the newest addition to her family, Gypsy Olive.

Lacey, a devoted mother since welcoming Dusty in 2019, followed by Trilby in 2021 and Gypsy Olive earlier this year, has openly discussed the intricate dance of juggling her demanding role on EastEnders with the all-consuming nature of motherhood. In a recent interview, she addressed the delicate balance she has struck, confirming her commitment to the show while acknowledging the ever-present considerations of family life. “For now, I’m really happy and it works. I just sort of take each day as it comes,” Lacey shared, offering a grounded perspective on her current situation. Her words resonate with many working parents who navigate the daily tightrope walk between professional aspirations and familial responsibilities.

Lacey’s pragmatic approach highlights the constant evaluation that working parents undertake. “I think as any working person, you weigh up your options and I do what is best for us really,” she explained, emphasizing that her decisions are ultimately guided by the well-being of her family. This sentiment echoes the experiences of countless individuals striving to provide for their loved ones while pursuing their careers.

The actress also acknowledged that the future is not set in stone and that adjustments may be necessary as her children grow and their needs evolve. “That may change as they change, as they grow. If something doesn’t work, then you change it,” she wisely stated, demonstrating a flexible and adaptable approach to her career and family life. Her priority remains clear: “I personally do my best and we do our best and that works. All people are different. And you’ve got to do what works best for you. I really love my job. I will always do.” This affirmation of her passion for acting provides a sense of reassurance for fans concerned about Stacey Slater’s future in Walford amidst the on-screen tragedy.

Furthermore, Lacey made it clear that her commitment to EastEnders is contingent on it continuing to align with her family’s needs. “I love my job and I wouldn’t work if I didn’t. It works for us,” she asserted, underscoring the importance of a fulfilling career that also allows her to be present as a mother. “I’m still a mom. Even when I’m at work, parenting, it doesn’t ever end. Even when they’re at school, you’re thinking what they’re going to have for dinner, what they’ve got to do when they get in. It’s constant. It doesn’t stop being a parent.” Her words beautifully capture the relentless and unwavering nature of motherhood, a role that transcends the boundaries of the workplace.

In a particularly poignant part of the interview, Lacey bravely addressed the real-life challenges of juggling parenthood amidst the escalating cost of living crisis – a struggle shared by countless families across the nation. “Being a parent is expensive, and regardless of your career, you still face challenges,” she stated with heartfelt honesty. Her words ground her experience, reminding viewers that even those in the public eye are not immune to the financial pressures of raising a family in the current economic climate.

Lacey offered a relatable anecdote, reflecting on her perspective before becoming a parent. “I remember even before I had Dusty when I wasn’t a parent. There’s a list that’s as long as your arm of things that you need to be a parent. But really, how much of that do you really need? You probably don’t.” This insightful observation challenges the often-consumer-driven narrative surrounding parenthood, suggesting a more pragmatic and less materialistic approach.

Her empathy extended beyond her own situation as she astutely commented on the pervasive culture of judgment and shaming that exists in society today. “I think it’s the same with anybody. You can be an actress, a broker, a hairdresser, or whatever it is. This is the problem with the world we live in today. Everybody is so judgmental. Everybody is quick to shame you,” Lacey expressed with concern. Her words serve as a powerful reminder of the need for greater understanding and less criticism in our interactions with one another.

Lacey concluded her thoughts on this important issue with a plea for compassion. “I think that’s what we need to try not to do. Life is hard enough without making it harder, especially as parents. You don’t know someone else’s situation. You shouldn’t judge. You might think you know because the world we live in. Your life is there for people to see, but unless you know someone, how can you?” Her mature and thoughtful perspective highlights the importance of empathy and recognizing the complexities of individual circumstances.

As Lacey Turner navigates the emotional fallout of Martin’s tragic death on screen, her candid reflections on her own experiences as a working mother in a challenging economic climate offer a powerful and relatable narrative off-screen. While Stacey Slater mourns the loss of her soulmate, Lacey Turner demonstrates the strength and resilience required to balance a demanding career with the unwavering commitment to her family, all while facing the same real-life pressures felt by so many. Her words provide a poignant reminder that even amidst the dramatic storylines of Albert Square, the actors who bring these characters to life are also navigating their own personal journeys with grace and fortitude. The future of Stacey Slater remains uncertain in the wake of this devastating loss, but Lacey Turner’s commitment to her craft and her family offers a sense of stability amidst the on-screen turmoil.