EastEnders Legend Derek Martin Dies at 92, Tributes Pour In for a TV Icon
Tonight we bring you sad news from the world of British television.
Derek Martin, the actor best known to millions as Charlie Slater in BBC’s EastEnders, has died at the age of 92. His family confirmed he passed away on January tenth and across the UK tonight, tributes are pouring in for a man many are calling a truly authentic voice of working class Britain.
For 15 years, Derek Martin was a familiar and comforting presence in Albert Square. As Charlie Slater, the no nonsense cab driver and devoted family man, he helped anchor one of the soap’s most iconic families. Viewers watched him through major storylines, family crises and quiet moments that made the character feel real. His final appearance came in 2016, when Charlie died on screen, a moment that already felt like the end of an era.
But Derek Martin’s career stretched far beyond EastEnders.
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Born Derek William Rapp in Bow, east London, in 1933, he grew up surrounded by cinemas and fell in love with film at a young age. He first entered the industry not as an actor, but as a stuntman, working on shows like Doctor Who. After a serious injury on set in the early 1970s, he changed direction and that decision reshaped his life.
He went on to build a long and steady career as a character actor. Audiences spotted him in classic British series like Only Fools and Horses, The Sweeney, Z Cars and The Bill. He also appeared in films ranging from 1960s comedies to the Oscar nominated Ragtime, sharing the screen in what would become the final film appearances of Hollywood legends.
In a statement released by his agent, Derek’s family described him not just as a father, but as a friend. They spoke of a man who never stopped learning, loved meeting people and was generous with his time. They’ve asked for privacy as they grieve.
The EastEnders team also paid tribute, saying Derek’s portrayal of Charlie Slater instantly captured the hearts of viewers and that he was deeply loved by everyone he worked with.
Derek Martin leaves behind decades of work that reflected everyday life with honesty and warmth. For many, he wasn’t just an actor on screen. He felt like family.
That’s the latest tonight. Our thoughts are with his loved ones and with the millions who grew up watching him.
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