Derek Martin, the actor best known for playing taxi driver Charlie Slater on EastEnders, has died at the age of 92.
Martin died on January 10, 2026, his agent Sharon Henry confirmed. He is survived by his two sons, David and Jonathan.
In a statement released through Henry, Martin’s 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.”
Martin portrayed Charlie Slater on the BBC soap opera from 2000 to 2010, becoming the patriarch of one of the show’s most iconic families. He returned for guest appearances in 2016, when his character suffered a fatal heart attack on-screen.
Charlie Slater arrived in Walford with his mother-in-law Mo Harris and his four daughters Lynne, Kat, Little Mo and Zoe, quickly establishing himself as a devoted family man. The mild-mannered cabbie became a fixture of Albert Square for more than a decade, navigating numerous storylines centered around his predominantly female family.
Michelle Ryan, who played Zoe Slater from 2000 to 2005, returned to the show in June 2025 for a surprise appearance, reprising her iconic role after 20 years away from the soap.
An EastEnders spokesperson said the show was deeply saddened by 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,” the spokesperson said.
Born in Bow, east London, in April 1933, Martin worked over 50 years in television and film. Before pursuing acting, he held a variety of jobs that reflected his working-class roots and adventurous spirit.
Martin worked at Smithfield Meat Market and served in the Royal Air Force. He also worked as a professional gambler, motor racer and debt collector before finding his calling in entertainment.
He started his entertainment career as a stuntman, a physically demanding profession that allowed him to break into the industry. Martin appeared in several episodes of Doctor Who, performing stunts for the long-running science fiction series.
Martin’s transition from stunt work to acting brought him a steady stream of television roles throughout the 1970s and beyond. He appeared in numerous British television series, becoming a familiar face to viewers across the country.
In 1978, Martin starred in Law & Order for the BBC, one of his career highlights. The series, which depicted police corruption, prompted controversy at the time but showcased Martin’s dramatic abilities.
Throughout his career, Martin appeared in several popular British television programs. He had roles in The Sweeney and The Bill, two police dramas that were staples of British television. These appearances demonstrated his versatility as an actor and his ability to portray working-class characters with authenticity.
Martin’s extensive television work spanned genres and decades, making him a respected figure in the British entertainment industry. His ability to bring depth and warmth to his characters made him a sought-after actor for both dramatic and lighter roles.
Beyond his professional achievements, Martin was a member of the Grand Order of Water Rats charity, an entertainment fraternity that supports various charitable causes. His involvement with the organization reflected his commitment to giving back to the community and supporting fellow performers.
Henry, his agent, said Martin was “a truly authentic working-class voice in British television and film.” She described him as “a devoted father, a generous member of the charitable Water Rats, avid golfer and all-around good man who will be greatly missed.”
The role of Charlie Slater became Martin’s most recognizable and beloved character, cementing his place in British popular culture. His portrayal brought warmth, humor and authenticity to the character, making Charlie Slater a fan favorite throughout his time on the show.
EastEnders noted that 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,” the spokesperson said.
Martin’s death marks the loss of a beloved figure in British television, whose contributions to the entertainment industry spanned more than half a century. His work as both a stuntman and actor helped shape British television drama, and his portrayal of Charlie Slater will remain a cherished memory for EastEnders fans.
The family has asked that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.
Sources:
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr578n5egm9o
https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/news/derek-martin-eastenders-death-charlie-slater-b2898354.html
https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/soaps/eastenders/derek-martin-eastenders-charlie-slater-dead-newsupdate/
https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/eastenders/a69967120/eastenders-tribute-derek-martin-dies-charlie-slater/
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/tributes-paid-eastenders-legend-derek-100526253.html
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-15456673/Michelle-Ryan-tribute-death-derek-martin-eastenders.html
https://cultbox.co.uk/news/derek-martin-eastenders-and-doctor-who-actor-stuntman-dies
