The entertainment world has been struck by a double tragedy as David Rapp, son of beloved EastEnders icon Derek Martin, has passed away just days after his father's own death. The heartbreaking news comes less than two weeks after Derek Martin, who played the iconic character Charlie Slater on the BBC One soap for many years, died on January 10, 2026.
A Family's Devastating Loss
David Rapp, who had followed his father into the entertainment industry, was actually with Derek when he passed away earlier this month. The cause of David's own death has not yet been publicly revealed, adding another layer of sorrow to this already tragic situation. David had established himself as a respected booker for the BBB Talent Agency, where he worked closely with actors and major organisations including the BBC, Channel 4, Pixar, and Sony.
Industry Tributes Pour In
The BBB Talent Agency released an emotional statement expressing their devastation: "Devastating news today. Just after losing his father. David has also passed away. The gentle giant whose heart was as big as he was. I couldn't have wished for a better friend or workmate. Rest in peace, David Rapp you will be missed! BBB HQ will never be the same."
Social media users have been sharing their condolences, with one person commenting: "That's sad especially for the family," while another added: "That's devastating." The outpouring of sympathy reflects how deeply this double loss has affected both the entertainment community and the public who admired Derek Martin's work.
A Recent Family Celebration
Just two years ago, the family had gathered for a much happier occasion when David joined his father, his brother Jonathan, and Carry On legend Anita Harris to celebrate Derek's 90th birthday. Photographs from the event show the beloved actor, known to millions as Charlie Slater, looking absolutely thrilled as he stood between his two sons for a joyful family portrait.
The Family's Previous Statement
Tragically, less than a month before David's own passing, he and his brother Jonathan had released a joint statement following their father's death. They said: "Derek wasn't just a dad to us he was a friend and supported us through our highs and lows. He never stopped learning, he loved meeting people and was always generous with his time. We both miss him terribly. The family ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult time."
Remembering Derek Martin's Legacy
Derek's spokesperson confirmed his passing with these words: "It is with great sadness that I can confirm that our beloved client Derek Martin passed away on 10th January 2026. For over 50 years, Derek was a truly authentic working-class voice in British television and film."
The statement continued: "It was a privilege to be a part of his creative journey in a career which included highlights such as Law And Order for the BBC and two series of The Governor produced by La Plante Productions. He is best known for his role on EastEnders, where he cherished his time portraying Charlie Slater."
They added: "Derek was a devoted father, a generous member of the charitable Water Rats, avid golfer and all-around good man who will be greatly missed."
EastEnders Pays Tribute
A spokesperson for EastEnders also commented: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Derek Martin. From the moment he arrived, Derek's portrayal of Charlie Slater instantly cemented him in the hearts of the audience, as the head of one of EastEnders' most iconic families."
They continued: "Charlie would do anything for his family, and much like his character, Derek would do the same for those around him. Derek was deeply loved by all those that worked with him at EastEnders and will always be remembered with great fondness. Our love and thoughts are with his family and friends."
Derek Martin's Remarkable Career
Derek Martin, whose real name was Derek William Rapp, began his entertainment career in an unexpected way - as a stuntman on Doctor Who. After sustaining a collarbone injury while filming Elizabeth R, he made the decision to concentrate fully on acting, a choice that would lead to one of British television's most memorable character portrayals.
The double loss of both Derek Martin and his son David within days of each other has created a profound sense of sadness throughout the entertainment industry and among the millions of viewers who came to love Derek through his portrayal of the iconic EastEnders patriarch Charlie Slater.
