EastEnders star dead as tributes paid to BBC TV legend
Actor Michael Keating appeared as Reverend Stevens from 2005 to 2017.
www.mirror.co.ukI don’t have live access to pull in the latest updates right this moment, but I can share what’s been reported recently.
Latest news summary
- Michael Keating, known for EastEnders and Blake’s 7, has widely reported obituary coverage circulating on May 21, 2026, noting his death at age 79. Several outlets mention his long-running role as Reverend Stevens on EastEnders (2005–2017) and his iconic part as Vila Restal in Blake’s 7.[1][2][3]
- Coverage from major outlets confirms his passing and highlights his contributions to British television, including Doctor Who audio work and appearances in other well-known series such as Yes Minister, Casualty, and Midsomer Murders.[2][3]
- Notable trade and entertainment outlets including the Mirror/Midweek UK press have published tributes and biographical notes, aligning with the surrounding reporting on his death.[6]
What this means
- The news cycle is treating his death as a significant obituary event within British TV history, with attention to both his EastEnders tenure and his Blake’s 7 legacy, along with other genre work.[3][1][2]
- If you’re looking for specifics (cause of death, funeral details, tributes from colleagues), those details often emerge in follow-up articles or official statements; current headlines focus on the confirmation of his passing and a recap of his career.[1][2]
Would you like me to gather more precise details from current obituary pieces, or compile a quick timeline of his major roles for reference? I can also look up tributes from particular actors or fans, if you have preferences.