Actor Derek Martin, who played taxi driver Charlie Slater in EastEnders, a BBC One soap, has passed away at the age of 92 on January 10, the official BBC EastEnders account announced on Instagram.
“Derek wasn’t just a dad to us. He was a friend and supported us through our highs and lows. He never stopped learning, he loved meeting people, and was always generous with his time. We miss him terribly,” a statement from his family said (per The Guardian).
Derek Martin Remembered As Someone Who Would ‘Do Anything For His Family’
“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 post 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. Our love and thoughts are with his family and friends.”
And under the post, many fans left touching tributes.
“So heartbreaking another true icon gone may he rest in peace,” one fan wrote.
“Best ever character. Rest in peace Derek 😢🕊️,” another fan commented.
“Off to drive the big black cab in the sky RIP x,” a fan stated.
“Loved watching the older episodes with Charlie in it, Rest in peace Derek😢❤️,” someone posted.
“uch sad news. RIP Derek 💔,” one person wrote.
Derek Martin’s Legacy
Before his acting career began, Martin worked in factories and as a butcher in London. He then went on to make appearances in “Doctor Who,” “Z-Cars,” “The Sweeney, “Eldorado,” and “Hart Hart,” before landing his big role. Specifically, in some of these, he was hired as the stuntman, but transited to acting after an injury during the 1971 show “Elizabeth R.”
From 2000 to 2011, Martin portrayed Charlie Slater in EastEnders, continuing to make appearances until 2016 when his character suffered a fatal heart attack. He also played Detective Inspector Fred Pyle in the BBC’s Law & Order.
His agent, Sharon Henry, remembered Martin as a “truly authentic working-class voice in British television and film.”
Derek was a devoted father, a generous member of the charitable Water Rats, avid golfer, and all-around good man who will be greatly missed,” she added (per The Guardian).
