From Newsgroup: rec.arts.tv



EastEnders actor Derek Martin dies aged 92
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Derek Martin, the actor best known for playing Charlie Slater
in EastEnders, has died aged 92.

Martin first appeared on the BBC soap's fictional Albert Square
in 2000 as widower Slater, along with his four daughters Lynne,
Kat, Little Mo and Zoe.

A regular cast member until 2011, he featured in a number of
major storylines. Martin then made several guest appearances on
the programme until his character suffered a fatal heart attack
in 2016.

In a statement shared on Sunday by his agent Sharon Henry,
Martin's family described him as a father and friend who
"supported us through our highs and lows", adding they would
"miss him terribly".

The statement said Martin - born in the East End of London
himself, in Bow - had died on Saturday.

"For over 50 years, Derek was a truly authentic working-class
voice in British television and film," it went on.

Meanwhile, his agent said it was "a privilege to be a part of
his creative journey" - and said he had "cherished his time
portraying Charlie Slater".

"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," Henry added.

Martin began acting in the 1960s, having previously worked in
factories and as a butcher at Smithfield Market in the City of
London.

Despite having no professional training, he went on to appear
in programmes such as Doctor Who, Z-Cars, The Sweeney,
Eldorado, Law & Order and Hart to Hart, before landing the role
of Charlie Slater.

An EastEnders spokesperson said the programme's team was "deeply
saddened" to hear of Martin's death.

"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," they went on.

"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."


<https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr578n5egm9o>



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