Michael Keating passes away at 79; tributes poured in for 'EastEnders' star

Michael Keating, the acclaimed British actor, has passed away at the age of 79. The news of his death was confirmed by his agent to the Press Association.

According to Spectrum News, Keating, best known for his role as Reverend George Stevens in 'EastEnders' and as the criminal mastermind Vila Restal in the sci-fi drama 'Blake's 7', was born in North London in 1947 and began his acting career in 1966. He went on to build an impressive body of work across some of British television's most beloved programmes over more than four decades.

Michael Keating's career and legacy

Keating appeared as Reverend George Stevens in 'EastEnders' from 2005 to 2017, regularly sharing scenes with the late June Brown as Dot Cotton. As the local priest of Walford, he was a familiar face at the soap's christenings, marriages and funerals. One of his most memorable appearances came in 2017 when he led prayers at Ronnie Mitchell's graveside funeral, with mourners including Jack and Max Branning looking on.

Beyond 'EastEnders', Keating held a special place in the hearts of sci-fi fans as the only actor to appear in all 52 episodes of 'Blake's 7', in which he played the roguish criminal Vila Restal. He also appeared in an early 'Doctor Who' story called 'The Sun Makers' and the audio drama 'The Twilight Kingdom'.

His broader television career included memorable roles in 'Yes Minister', 'The Bill', 'Casualty' and 'London's Burning'. His final television role came in a 2009 episode of 'Midsomer Murders' titled 'The Dogleg Murders', in which he played Derek Painter.

Tributes pour in for Michael Keating

Tributes have poured in from fans and the film community. Many remembered the actor for his work on 'Blake's 7'.

"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," one fan wrote. Another added, "Very sad news. Michael Keating has passed away aged 79. Loved him as Vila in 'Blake's 7', and so many other roles ranging from 'EastEnders' to 'Yes Minister'."

A third wrote, "Michael Keating, the best thief in the galaxy. Another childhood hero gone. And Vila was a hero! RIP." The Cult Edge account also paid tribute, writing, "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."