Latest News About Michael Keating Blakes 7

Here’s the latest I can share based on recent public reports.

Core update

• Michael Keating, known for Blake’s 7 and EastEnders, has been reported to have passed away at age 79 in May 2026. Multiple outlets circulated tributes from colleagues and fans, noting his warmth and contributions to both Blake’s 7 and EastEnders. This is being reported by several entertainment outlets and fan sites as of May 20–21, 2026. [Sources cited in-line below.]

Context and quick recap

• Blake’s 7 star: Michael Keating played Vila Restal on Blake’s 7, a role he’s widely remembered for within the sci-fi fandom. Tributes emphasize Vila’s role as a beloved, witty character who added warmth to the series.[1][5]
• EastEnders connection: Keating also played Reverend George Stevens in EastEnders, appearing in many episodes over a span of years, contributing to the show’s storyline and community reception.[5][1]
• Public reactions: Publisher Cult Edge and various fan accounts publicly shared condolences and highlighted his impact on fans and colleagues.[5]

Selected quick facts for reference

• Death: Reported May 2026 (age 79) with tributes from colleagues and fans.[1][5]
• Blake’s 7 role: Vila Restal, a core character across the original series.[5]
• EastEnders role: Reverend George Stevens, 2005–2017 period of appearances.[5]

Notes and next steps

• If you’d like, I can gather a snapshot of memorial tributes, confirm takeaways from specific obituaries, and pull quotes from the tributes. I can also compile a tiny timeline of Keating’s screen roles beyond Blake’s 7 and EastEnders for context.
• If you’re seeking fan-curated tributes or commemorations at upcoming conventions or audio releases, I can point you to relevant fan hubs and official Big Finish updates.

Would you like me to pull out exact quotes from the tributes and assemble a concise memorial timeline? I can also add a brief table comparing Vila Restal’s characteristics with Vila’s portrayal in the Big Finish audio stories, if that would help.