Derek Martin, EastEnders Actor, Dies at 92

Veteran British actor Derek Martin, best known for his role as taxi driver Charlie Slater on the BBC soap opera EastEnders, has died at the age of 92.

Martin passed away in a hospital on January 10, 2026, at around 7 p.m., with his son David and a close family friend present. His agent, Sharon Henry, confirmed the news in a statement, describing Martin as a devoted father, an avid golfer and a generous member of the charitable organization the Grand Order of Water Rats. "For over 50 years, Derek was a truly authentic working-class voice in British television and film," Henry said. She highlighted his career milestones, including roles in the BBC's Law and Order and two series of the ITV prison drama The Governor, produced by Lynda La Plante. Martin cherished his time on EastEnders, where he portrayed Charlie from 2000 to 2011, with guest appearances in 2013 and a final five-episode stint in 2016.

A statement from Martin's family, shared through Henry, expressed profound grief. "Derek wasn't just a dad to us, he was a friend and supported us through our highs and lows," it read. "He never stopped learning, he loved meeting people and was always generous with his time. We both...