Grief has intensified for the family of Derek Martin, as his son, David Rapp, passed away just days after the actor’s own passing, as reported by The Metro UK.
The BBC had earlier reported that the ‘EastEnders’ icon, remembered by generations for his role as Charlie Slater, died last week at the age of 92. According to a report in Wales Online, a family friend previously confirmed that David was at his father’s side during his final moments.
GettyThe confirmation of David’s passing soon after has only deepened the heartbreak, leaving loved ones and fans mourning a devastating double loss.
Martin’s Son David Remembered as a ‘Gentle Giant’
BBB Talent Agency confirmed David’s passing in a moving social media statement shared on January 20.
“Devastating news today. Just after losing his father. David has also passed away. The gentle giant whose heart was as big as he was. I couldn’t have wished for a better friend or workmate,” the agency wrote, as published by The Metro UK.
“Rest in peace, David Rapp, you will be missed! BBB HQ will never be the same.”
The tribute captured both the personal grief and deep respect felt by those who worked closely with David, highlighting the lasting impact he had on those around him.
‘EastEnders’ Pays Tribute to a Beloved Patriarch
The announcement follows a recent tribute from “EastEnders” honoring Derek’s lasting impact on the long-running series.
Martin played Charlie Slater from 2000 to 2011, becoming a central figure in one of the show’s most beloved families.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Derek Martin. 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,” the statement read.
“Charlie would do anything for his family, and much like his character, Derek would do the same for those around him. Derek was deeply loved by all those that worked with him at EastEnders and will always be remembered with great fondness.”
A Personal Struggle Reflected On & Off Screen
Charlie Slater’s storylines frequently revolved around family devotion and mental health, themes that closely echoed Martin’s own life.
On the show, his great-niece Stacey Slater, portrayed by Lacey Turner, navigated bipolar disorder and depression, narratives that carried personal weight for the actor.
In a 2016 appearance on “Lorraine,” Martin spoke openly about how those fictional moments reflected what he was experiencing at home.
“I was going to work and Stacey in the storyline had bipolar and depression, and we couldn’t make out what it was [in the storyline], and then I’d go home, and there was my son, who I’d been worried about during the day that he was okay, suffering from severe depression too,” he said, as reported by The Metro UK.
“So I had it fictionally, and I had it practically.”
The closeness of the two losses has left fans and colleagues reeling.
Derek Martin and David Rapp are now being remembered not only for their connection to television but for the deeply human experiences that shaped their lives, both on screen and away from the spotlight.
