Former Blake's 7 and EastEnders star Michael Keating has died at the age of 79. The actor, best known for his beloved role as Vila Restal in the cult sci-fi series, also portrayed Reverend George Stevens in the BBC soap opera between 2005 and 2007.
Tributes Pour In
Michael's death was announced by Cult Edge, which publishes Blake's 7 books, and several fan accounts on social media. The official X account posted: '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'
Film producer Keith Barnfather shared on Facebook: 'MICHAEL KEATING 1947 - 2026. More sad news. The passing of the absolutely lovely MICHAEL KEATING. VILA was probably my favourite character in BLAKE'S 7 and it was a total blast to meet Michael properly to film his MYTH MAKERS at Winspit Quarry in Dorset. Such a fun, generous, kind spirit. My deepest condolences to his family and every Blake's 7 fan out there.'
Remembering Vila Restal
In Blake's 7, Michael portrayed Vila Restal, a skilled thief and conjurer, in the space opera developed and written by Terry Nation, the creator of the Daleks and Davros for Doctor Who. Vila was the only character to appear in every episode of the four series, which aired between 1978 and 1981.
Fans and enthusiasts took to social media to pay tribute. Jason Gilchrist posted on X: 'Farewell to actor Michael Keating. BLAKES 7 universe has lost another freedom fighter and star. As Vila Restal, Michael brought wonderful lightness, warmth, fear, drama, and humour to the character. Vila was integral to Blake's 7. I raise a glass of Adrenaline & Soma to you. #Blakes7'
Paul Carmichael, writer/producer/director of Sophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey podcast, posted: 'So sorry to hear that Michael Keating has died. A fine actor with a wonderful career, including a recurring role in EastEnders, but to me he will always be the wonderful Vila in Blakes7. RIP.'
The official X account for Space Fall: A Blake's 7 Podcast stated: 'We're both very sad to hear of the passing of Michael Keating. Blake's 7 wouldn't have been what it was without him. Some of the most memorable moments were all down to him, and by all accounts he was a wonderful chap. He'll be missed.'
EastEnders and Beyond
Aside from Blake's 7, Michael was well known for playing Reverend George Stevens in BBC One soap EastEnders from 2005 to 2017. The recurring character appeared for Walford christenings, marriages, and funerals, and had interactions with regular churchgoer Dot Branning, played by the late June Brown.
Other notable acting roles included parts in Yes Minister, The Bill, and Midsomer Murders. He also reunited with Blake's 7 co-star Gareth Thomas in an episode of the BBC medical drama Casualty.
Michael Keating leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances that touched audiences across generations. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans worldwide.
