The British entertainment world is in mourning following the death of veteran actor Derek Martin at the age of 92. The sad news was confirmed by his family and agent on Sunday, 11 January 2026.
A Heartfelt Tribute from a Co-Star
Among the first to pay tribute was actor David Yip, 74, who starred alongside Martin in the 1980s BBC police drama The Chinese Detective. Yip recalled being both excited and scared to learn Martin would be playing his boss, having seen him portray a series of gritty villains on screen.
"Derek had the wonderful ability to stop you in your tracks with one of his menacing stares or growls," Yip said. "But underneath that persona he was a lovely man... He constantly told me that he wasn’t a real actor, he just played what he knew and kept it real. In my book that was wonderful acting."
Yip described a warm friendship that endured long after their initial work together, noting that Martin would "nearly crush me to death in a huge hug" each time they met. He praised Martin for being encouraging and supportive, offering wisdom on acting and life.
In a final, emotional message, Yip said: "Not wishing to embarrass you Derek but I loved you and deeply respected you and your talent. Rest in peace mate."
A Life on Screen and Stage
Derek Martin was best known to millions for his role as Charlie Slater, the iconic Walford taxi driver in BBC One's EastEnders. He played the part from 2000 to 2011, with guest appearances afterwards. His final episode aired in 2016, where his character suffered a fatal heart attack during a dramatic storyline involving his daughter Kat and granddaughter Zoe.
His career, however, spanned decades before Albert Square. He appeared in classic British series including:
- Z-Cars
- The Professionals
- The Sweeney
- Minder
- Lynda La Plante's The Governor
- Law and Order
Writer Lynda La Plante remembered him as "an extremely talented actor, genuine and truthful from the moment he first came on TV."
A Cherished Friend and Family Man
Beyond his acting, Martin was a dedicated member of the theatrical charity The Grand Order of Water Rats, serving as King Rat. The organisation said they were "deeply saddened" by the loss of a "tireless worker" whose "cockney charm and straightforward, no nonsense wisdom" would be sorely missed.
In a statement shared by his agent Sharon Henry, his family said: "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 both miss him terribly."
Henry added that Martin was a "truly authentic working class voice in British television and film." An EastEnders spokesperson said the show was "deeply saddened" and that his role "cemented him in the hearts of the audience."
The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.
