Derek Martin, EastEnders Actor, Passes Away at 92

Derek Martin, best known for playing Charlie Slater on EastEnders, has died at the age of 92.

Martin joined the BBC soap in 2000 as widower Charlie Slater, father to Lynne, Kat, Little Mo, and Zoe, and became a beloved figure on Albert Square. He was a regular cast member until 2011, with guest appearances continuing until his character’s on-screen death from a heart attack in 2016.

Born in Bow, East London, Martin started acting in the 1960s after working in factories and as a butcher at Smithfield Market. Without formal training, he appeared in shows including Doctor Who, Z-Cars, The Sweeney, Eldorado, Law & Order, and Hart to Hart before landing his iconic EastEnders role.

His family described him as a devoted father and friend who supported them through life’s highs and lows, while his agent highlighted his generosity, love for golf, and dedication to charitable work.

EastEnders paid tribute to Martin, calling him “a truly authentic working-class voice in British television” and remembering him as deeply loved by colleagues and fans alike.