‘Law & Order’ and Soap Opera Actor Dead at 92: RIP to Derek Martin

Derek Martin, the beloved actor best known for his roles as Detective Inspector Fred Pyall on Law & Order and Charlie Slater in EastEnders, died Saturday. He was 92.

In a statement from the London native’s agent, Sharon Henry, to the BBC, Martin’s family described him as a father and friend who “supported us through our highs and lows” and whom they would miss “terribly.”

“For over 50 years, Derek was a truly authentic working-class voice in British television and film,” the statement continued, adding that he “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,” the statement added.

Martin didn’t have any formal acting training, but started as a stuntman in the entertainment industry after working in factories and as a butcher. His big break came in 1978, however, when he was cast as Detective Inspector Fred Pyall in the BBC’s Law & Order, opening the door for him to appear in a wide range of TV series, including ITV’s The Governor and King and Castle.

Martin also appeared on the big screen in films including Ragtime (1981), Spaghetti House (1982) and Boston Kickout (1995).

The actor is best known for his role as EastEnders‘ Charlie Slater, a role he played for 852 episodes between 2000 and 2016, when his character suffered a major heart attack.

A BBC spokesperson issued a statement on Sunday saying that the EastEnders team was “deeply saddened” to hear of Martin’s death.

pic.twitter.com/z3s5faSxEy

— BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) January 11, 2026

“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 statement continued.

“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,” they went on, concluding. “Our love and thoughts are with his family and friends.”