Derek Martin: Tributes pour in as EastEnders 'legend' known for playing Charlie Slater dies aged 92
The soap star who was known for playing Charlie Slater on the BBC One soap has sadly passed away.
A beloved member of the EastEnders family has passed away aged 92.
Derek Martin who played Charlie Slater on the BBC One soap from 2000 to 2011, has sadly died.
EastEnders fans will remember, Charlie Slater as a devoted dad and taxi driver. He featured in a number of major emotional storylines, alongside fellow stars including Jessie Wallace (Kat Slater.)
Martin then made several guest appearances on the programme until his character suffered a fatal heart attack in 2016.
The soap star’s family announced the news in a statement which 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.
“The family ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.”
His agent, Sharon Henry, said: “It is with great sadness that I can confirm that our beloved client Derek Martin passed away on 10th January 2026.
“For over 50 years, Derek was a truly authentic working-class voice in British television and film. It was a privilege to be a part of his creative journey in a career which included highlights such as Law And Order for the BBC and two series of The Governor produced by La Plante Productions.
"He is best known for his role on EastEnders, where he cherished his time portraying Charlie Slater.
“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.”
Fans have taken to Twitter (now known as X) to share their favourite memories of the star, who has been hailed a “screen legend”.
Only Fools and Horses News wrote: “Today, we lost a screen legend More commonly known for his character Charlie Slater in Eastenders, Derek Martin played Arthur, a neighbour of the Trotters in the 1993 special ‘Fatal Extraction’ He sadly passed away this evening in hospital after a short illness, aged 92.”
The Albert Square After Dark podcast said: “RIP to the wonderful Derek Martin. Charlie Slater was one of the greats of the 2000s. Thanks for your service Sir.”
The Radio Times said: “We are saddened to learn of the death of actor Derek Martin at the age of 92. Martin was best known for his beloved EastEnders character Charlie Slater who he portrayed on and off from 2000 to 2016.”