The entertainment world is in mourning following the death of beloved EastEnders actor Derek Martin at the age of 92. The star, best known for his decade-long portrayal of Walford's iconic cabbie Charlie Slater, passed away on 10th January 2026.
A Devoted Father and Friend
In a heartfelt statement shared by his agent, Sharon Henry, Martin's family remembered him as far more than just a performer. "Derek wasn’t just a dad to us he was a friend and supported us through our highs and lows," they said. "He never stopped learning, he loved meeting people and was always generous with his time. We both miss him terribly." The family has requested privacy during this difficult period.
His agent, Sharon Henry, confirmed the sad news, stating: "It is with great sadness that I can confirm that our beloved client Derek Martin passed away on 10th January 2026." She praised his 50-year career as a "truly authentic working-class voice in British television and film," highlighting his roles in Law And Order and The Governor. She also noted he was a devoted father, a generous member of the charitable Water Rats, and an avid golfer.
An EastEnders Icon Remembered
Derek Martin first joined the cast of the BBC One soap in 2000 as the head of the turbulent Slater clan, quickly becoming a fan favourite. He remained a series regular until 2011, with subsequent guest appearances leading to his character's final, dramatic exit in 2016.
An EastEnders spokesperson paid tribute, saying: "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... Charlie would do anything for his family, and much like his character, Derek would do the same for those around him. He will always be remembered with great fondness."
Charlie Slater was central to some of the soap's most major storylines. In a shocking 2001 plot, he discovered his brother Harry had abused his daughter Kat and was the father of her child, Zoe. His final storyline in 2016 saw the character suffer a fatal heart attack during a heated argument between Kat and her grandmother, Mo Harris, over a long-hidden family secret.
A Prolific Career Spanning Decades
While Charlie Slater remains his most famous role, Martin enjoyed a vast and varied career on British screens long before arriving in Albert Square. His television credits read like a history of UK drama, including parts in classic series such as Z-Cars, The Professionals, The Sweeney, and Minder.
He starred alongside David Yip in the groundbreaking BBC series The Chinese Detective in the early 1980s and took a lead role in the ITV series King And Castle. He also appeared in Lynda La Plante's ITV prison drama The Governor. La Plante herself said: "Derek Martin was an extremely talented actor, genuine and truthful from the moment he first came on TV."
Demonstrating his sense of humour, Martin even played a version of himself in an episode of the hit comedy Little Britain. His career was a testament to his versatility and enduring presence in the industry, leaving behind a legacy cherished by colleagues, fans, and his loving family.
