BIG SAD NEWS!!! EastEnders and TV legend Michael Keating dies aged 79

Tributes are being made following the news EastEnders star Michael Keating has died at the age of 79.

The actor featured in the BBC One soap between the years of 2005 and 2017 as Reverend Stevens.

The character would often feature in scenes with Dot Cotton (June Brown).

His final appearance in the show saw the Reverend tell Dot that he was retiring and moving to Australia to live with his daughter.

Elsewhere, Michael was the only actor to appear in all 52 episodes of the beloved science fiction show Blake’s 7.

He portrayed the criminal Vila Restal, who had a penchant for hacking any security system. The character became a fan favourite thanks to his humour and comedic timing.

The actor was born in North London and began his acting career when he was 19. His first role was on stage at the Nottingham Playhouse.

Michael’s other TV credits include Doctor Who, Casualty, Midsomer Murders and Yes Minister.

The star worked extensively in theatre throughout his career, including productions at the National Theatre and the Old Vic.

Fans of Michael Keating are sharing heartfelt tribute messages online following news of his death.

One person wrote: ‘Very sad news. Michael Keating has died aged 79. Loved him as Vila in Blake’s 7, and so many other roles ranging from EastEnders to Yes Minister.’

Another added: ‘Very sad to hear that Michael Keating has passed away. A genuinely lovely man, and he was absolutely brilliant in every single episode of Blake’s 7. RIP.’

This person said: ‘Michael Keating the best thief in the galaxy. Another childhood hero gone. And Vila was a hero! RIP.’

Cult Edge, the publisher of the Blake’s 7 books, posted their own tribute to Michael on X and wrote: ‘So terribly sad to hear reports that we’ve lost Michael Keating.

‘What a loss, and what a wonderful man. He’ll be hugely missed. Thoughts are with his family and friends. RIP Michael, and thank you xx.’