Tributes Pour in for Michael Keating, Beloved Star of EastEnders and Blake's 7, Who Passed Away at 79
EastEnders and Blake's 7 star dies aged 79 as tributes pour in for beloved actor

Image: Dailystar Co Uk
Michael Keating, known for his roles in EastEnders and Blake's 7, has died at 79. His portrayal of Vila Restal in Blake's 7 earned him a dedicated fanbase, and tributes from colleagues and fans highlight his warmth and comedic talent. His passing is mourned by many in the acting community.
- 01Michael Keating played Reverend Stevens in EastEnders from 2005 to 2017.
- 02He was best known for his role as Vila Restal in Blake's 7, appearing in every episode from 1978 to 1981.
- 03Keating also had roles in Doctor Who, Casualty, and Midsomer Murders.
- 04Tributes from fans and colleagues emphasize his joyful presence and comedic timing.
- 05Peter Anghelides, a producer for Blake’s 7, praised Keating's impact on the series and his popularity as a character.
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Michael Keating, a cherished actor known for his roles in the BBC One soap EastEnders and the iconic sci-fi series Blake's 7, has passed away at the age of 79. Keating portrayed Reverend Stevens in EastEnders from 2005 to 2017, often sharing scenes with June Brown's beloved character, Dot Cotton. He gained fame as Vila Restal in Blake's 7, a role he held throughout the series' original run from 1978 to 1981. His versatility also saw him appear in Doctor Who, Casualty, and Midsomer Murders. The news of his death was shared by Cult Edge, the publisher of Blake's 7 books, who expressed their sorrow on social media, stating, "What a wonderful man. He’ll be hugely missed." Fans and colleagues have flooded social media with tributes, highlighting his warmth and comedic talent. Peter Anghelides, a producer for Blake's 7, reminisced about Keating's joyful presence and his significant impact on the series. A fan noted, "As Vila Restal, Michael Keating brought wonderful lightness, warmth, fear, drama, and humor to the character," reflecting the affection many held for him.
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