The role of e20 nightclub owner Steve Owen marked Martin's 'big break' into UK television, and won him several British Soap Awards, and a National Television Award for 'Best Actor'.

During his time in Albert Square, Steve Owen was involved in several dramatic storylines that would include a murder trial, drug addiction, marriage, a shooting, a near-divorce, a dying mother, revenge, and some other dodgy business dealings in between. His death would occur exactly one year after his wedding.