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EastEnders Actor Dies 

Derek Martin, the actor best known for playing Charlie Slater in EastEnders, has died aged 92. 

Martin first appeared on the BBC soap's fictional Albert Square in 2000 as widower Slater, along with his four daughters Lynne, Kat, Little Mo and Zoe. 

A regular cast member until 2011, he featured in a number of major storylines. Martin then made several guest appearances on the programme until his character suffered a fatal heart attack in 2016. 

In a statement shared on Sunday by his agent Sharon Henry, Martin's family described him as a father and friend who "supported us through our highs and lows", adding they would "miss him terribly". 

The statement said Martin - born in the East End of London himself, in Bow - had died on Saturday. 

"For over 50 years, Derek was a truly authentic working-class voice in British television and film," it went on. 

Meanwhile, his agent said it was "a privilege to be a part of his creative journey" - and said he had "cherished his time portraying Charlie Slater". 

"Derek was a devoted father, a generous member of the charitable Water Rats, an avid golfer and all-around good man who will be greatly missed," Henry added. 

Martin began acting in the 1960s, having previously worked in factories and as a butcher at Smithfield Market in the City of London.

11 January 2026                                            

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