EastEnders star Stephen Aaron-Sipple says he’s “very lucky” after leaving his “dream” job
EastEnders actor Stephen Aaron-Sipple has confirmed that he has left his role as a firefighter with the London Fire Brigade after being cast as Mark Fowler Jr on the BBC soap.
Soap fans will remember that Mark returned to Walford on January 22, with Stephen taking over the role from former actor Ned Porteous, who has since appeared on Emmerdale. Since arriving back in Albert Square injured and bloodied, Mark has caused nothing but trouble.
Viewers later discovered that Mark — the son of Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) and Michelle Fowler (Susan Tully) — is involved with a dangerous drugs gang and has come under suspicion of acting as a police informant.
In a bid to uncover the truth, Mark turned to his uncle Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) for help in exposing the real grass — who viewers already know is Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara).
Mark has also shared scenes with his sister Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig), misleading her into believing he had returned to Walford to support her during the court case involving Joel Marshall (Max Murray), reports OK!.
Beyond his work on EastEnders, Stephen Aaron-Sipple has spoken openly about his decade-long career as a firefighter. In an emotional Instagram post shared on Friday, January 30, the actor revealed that he has now left his role with the London Fire Brigade after ten years of service.
Stephen explained that he followed his “dream” of becoming a firefighter to provide stability for his young family at a time when his acting career had yet to take off.
Alongside a collection of photos from his time in the fire service, Stephen reflected:
“Quick story… 10 years ago I was a struggling actor. My daughter was born and my family needed stability — a word not often associated with the acting world. I was very lucky to be able to fulfil another childhood dream and become a London firefighter.”
He went on to praise the impact the job had on his life, saying it taught him about loss, gratitude and resilience, while also giving him a second family. Stephen described the bond he shared with his colleagues, recalling how they rescued, mourned and supported one another through both the toughest and most joyful moments.
Although he is now moving on to a new chapter focused on storytelling and performance, Stephen said he will always be grateful to the fire station that helped shape the person he is today. He paid tribute to F32 Stoke Newington Red Watch, adding:
“I love you brothers and sisters. I hope I always make you proud.”
Following the announcement, friends and fans were quick to show their support, with one person commenting:
“You’re one of the best men I know — you deserve every success in life.”
Another supporter commented: “I made the cut! What a day that was. London was on fire. Wishing you all the best on your next adventure — you’re going to absolutely smash it.”
A third fan added to the praise, writing: “Well done, brother. It’s been incredible watching your journey,” while another enthused: “This is amazing — look where you are now. A true shining star and thoroughly deserved. Sending you all the love.”
Others were equally encouraging, with one fan saying: “Congratulations, Stephen! Best of luck going forward,” and another adding: “Nice one, bro — from Church Street to Albert Square. Good luck, brother.”
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