News has come out that an actor from a prominent soap has passed on. The news was shared by the actor’s agent, complete with a statement from their family. In addition, the team behind the soap has also opened up about what happened.
The Actor Was 92 At The Time Of Their Death
The actor had been part of a famous soap for over a decade. They even continued appearing as the character after their original run.
Interestingly, the star had entered the entertainment industry from another field. However, they would soon find themselves with a career spanning decades.
Derek Martin had a career spanning decades, starting out as a stuntman, including programs like Doctor Who, before transitioning into acting. He notably appeared in the crime dramas Law & Order and King and Castle.
For many, Martin’s most prominent role was playing Charlie Slater in the BBC soap opera EastEnders. He originally appeared in the series from 2000 to 2011. Martin later appeared briefly as the character in 2013 and 2016.
In the series, Martin’s character was featured in a number of major storylines. He was introduced on the soap’s fictional Albert Square with his four daughters, Lynne, Kat, Little Mo and Zoe. Slater was eventually killed off with a fatal heart attack in his final appearance.
In a statement shared by Martin’s agent, Sharon Henry, with the BBC News, his family revealed that he died on January 10, 2026. He was 92 at the time of his death.
EastEnders‘ Team Also Released A Statement In Tribute To Derek Martin
In the statement, Martin’s family shared that he “supported us through our highs and lows” and that they would “miss him terribly.” As it went on, “For over 50 years, Derek was a truly authentic working-class voice in British television and film.”
Martin’s agent also described working with him as “a privilege to be a part of his creative journey.” The actor was also said to have “cherished his time portraying Charlie Slater.” Ultimately, Henry described the actor, sharing, “Derek was a devoted father, a generous member of the charitable Water Rats, an avid golfer and all-around good man who will be greatly missed.”
According to The Daily Mail, Martin was hospitalized prior to his death. However, a cause of death has not yet been shared.
As shared by the BBC, a spokesperson for EastEnders also shared that the soap’s team was “deeply saddened” by the news. The statement read, “From the moment he arrived, Derek’s portrayal of Charlie Slater instantly cemented him in the hearts of the audience, as the head of one of EastEnders‘ most iconic families.”
EastEnders has been broadcast since early 1985. The soap follows the local residents in the fictitious borough of Walford in the East End of London.
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John Witiw has been a writer since at least 2015. He’s covered a variety of topics, especially when it comes to film and television.