Michael Keating death: Popular Eastenders and Blake's 7 star dies aged 79
Actor appeared as Reverend Stevens in 50 episodes of the BBC soap between 2005 and 2017
www.independent.co.ukMichael Keating, known for Blake’s 7 and EastEnders, has died at age 79 in May 2026.[4][5]
Overview
- Blake’s 7 role: Vila Restal, a beloved crew member whose wit and warmth complemented the series’ dynamic.[4]
- EastEnders role: Reverend George Stevens, appearing in numerous episodes from 2005–2017, adding depth to the show’s community scenes.[4]
Context and notable mentions
- tributes poured in from fans and colleagues, with producers and fans emphasizing his kindness and the impact of Vila on Blake’s 7’s enduring fanbase.[5][4]
- Coverage spans both traditional outlets and fan-focused sites, reflecting his dual-genre appeal in sci‑fi and soap audiences.[9][4]
What this means for fans
- If you’re revisiting Blake’s 7, Vila’s character often serves as a source of humor and heart in tense moments.[4]
- For EastEnders viewers, Keating’s Reverend Stevens is remembered for his recurring presence across many church and community scenes.[4]
Extra notes
- Several outlets reported the news on May 20–21, 2026, confirming the public acknowledgment of his passing and highlighting his career across stage, screen, and audio projects.[9][4]
If you’d like, I can pull a concise timeline of his key roles and a quick roundup of notable tributes from fans and colleagues.