Michael Keating, the actor celebrated for his performances in EastEnders and the science fiction classic Blake's 7, has died at the age of 79.
A post by Cult Edge, the publisher of multiple Blake's 7 books, confirmed the sad news on social media on Thursday.
It read: "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."
Cult Edge announced the death of Michael Keating
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The London-born performer became a familiar face to soap audiences through his portrayal of Reverend Stevens in EastEnders, a role he maintained for over a decade.
Science fiction enthusiasts will remember him best as Vila Restal, the reluctant criminal with exceptional lock-picking abilities whom he played throughout Blake's 7's entire run.
His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues across the entertainment industry.
Mr Keating joined the cast of the BBC soap in 2005, with his character frequently sharing scenes with June Brown's beloved Dot Cotton, a devoted churchgoer.
Michael Keating in Blake's 7
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His final appearance as the vicar came in 2017, when Reverend Stevens informed Dot of his retirement and plans to relocate to Australia to live with his daughter.
Mr Keating's connection to Blake's 7 remains equally significant, as he holds the distinction of being the sole cast member to feature in every one of the programme's 52 episodes between 1978 and 1981.
Vila Restal, the cowardly yet skilled thief he portrayed, became one of the show's most popular characters.
Mr Keating's career began on stage at the age of 19, with his debut at Nottingham Playhouse leading to tours across British theatres.
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Tributes have flooded in for the late Michael Keating
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He later enjoyed extended engagements at prestigious venues including the National Theatre and the Old Vic.
Television audiences encountered him in numerous productions beyond his most famous roles, with credits spanning Yes Minister, Casualty, Micro Men and Midsomer Murders.
His association with Doctor Who began in 1977 with an appearance in The Sun Makers, and he continued working within that universe through various Big Finish audio adventures including The Twilight Kingdom.
The audio production company described him as "one of the most recognisable and best-loved faces in modern fiction."
His work with Big Finish also saw him reprise Vila Restal for their Blake's 7 audio series.
Tributes have flooded social media following the announcement of his death.
Big Finish producer Peter Anghelides reflected on their collaboration, noting his delight at working with an actor he first encountered at BBC Television Centre in 1981.
"His cheery presence on studio days was always most welcome," Anghelides said. "I would sit at the back of the Audio Sorcery control room hooting with laughter at his comic timing in our recordings."
Fans have described him as "a genuinely lovely man" and praised his performances across his extensive career.