Story perspectives

Actor Michael Keating, EastEnders, Blake’s 7 Star, Dies at 79

5/22/2026

Summary

Michael Keating Dies

Michael Keating died at age 79, reported on May 21 2026.
His agent confirmed the death to the Press Association.
Cult Edge announced the news on X.
Keating, who began acting in 1966, was known for Reverend George Stevens in EastEnders (2005-2017) and Vila Restal in all 52 episodes of Blake’s 7 (1978-1981).

Summary

Keating Returns

Peter Anghelides cast Michael Keating as Vila Restal for Big Finish’s Blake’s 7 audio dramas, three decades after meeting at BBC Television Centre in 1981.
Anghelides said Keating’s cheery presence and laughter in Audio Sorcery control room lifted studio atmosphere.
He noted Keating’s comic timing consistently provoked hooting laughter during recording sessions.
Keating’s performance linked the original TV series to its later BBC Radio plays, bridging franchise across media formats.

History

Historical Context

In 1978 the BBC launched Blake’s 7, a 52-episode sci-fi series that drew 9 million UK viewers and aired in 25 countries. Its low-budget but ambitious production led to radio adaptations in 1998-99 and a cult following. Leveraging that legacy, Big Finish began new full-cast audio dramas in 2011, extending the franchise for legacy fans.

1 of 3

Michael Keating Dies

Michael Keating died at age 79, reported on May 21 2026.
His agent confirmed the death to the Press Association.
Cult Edge announced the news on X.
Keating, who began acting in 1966, was known for Reverend George Stevens in EastEnders (2005-2017) and Vila Restal in all 52 episodes of Blake’s 7 (1978-1981).

1 / 3