Actress Natalie Cassidy has paid an emotional tribute to her former EastEnders co-star Derek Martin, who died earlier this month at the age of 92. The 42-year-old, best known for playing Sonia Fowler, shared a photograph of the pair on social media, describing how they got on 'like a house on fire'.
In her Instagram post, Cassidy recalled how Martin, who played Charlie Slater on the BBC soap, was 'very very kind' to her and enjoyed conversations with her late father. She added that working in the entertainment industry allowed her to mix with people of all ages, though she noted the sadness of losing many older friends over the years.
Fans responded with warm messages, with one describing Martin as 'a good egg' and another remembering that their mother often saw him shopping locally. Cassidy expressed gratitude for her friendships with older generations, saying they had 'shaped' her 'beyond belief'.
Martin, born Derek William Rapp, began his career as a stuntman on Doctor Who before moving into acting. His television credits included Law & Order, Only Fools and Horses, and Little Britain, but he was best known for his role as Charlie Slater on EastEnders throughout the 2000s.
His family confirmed his death on 11 January, paying tribute to a 'devoted father' who was 'a generous member of the charitable Water Rats, an avid golfer and all-around good man'. A spokesperson for EastEnders said: 'We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Derek Martin. From the moment he arrived, Derek's portrayal of Charlie Slater instantly cemented him in the hearts of the audience.'
