Actor Michael Keating, best known for his role as Vila Restal in the BBC science fiction television series Blake's 7, has died aged 79, his agent has said.
The TV star was also recognisable for his role as Reverend George Stevens in the BBC soap EastEnders.
Vila is the only character to have appeared in all episodes of Blake's 7, which ran from 1978 until 1981.
Keating's death was confirmed by his agent to the Press Association.
The London-born actor started his career in the 1960s and went on to land small roles in shows including Doctor Who and Doomwatch in the 1970s.
Keating rose to recognition for his role as the cowardly criminal Vila in the BBC sci-fi series Blake's 7, which follows a group of convicts and outcasts fighting against an intergalactic totalitarian regime.
He starred in the series throughout its three-year run from 1978 to 1981 and later featured in shows including the sitcom Yes Minister as well as the drama The Play on One.
Keating also featured in popular TV series, including The Bill, Casualty, and Midsomer Murders, before later landing his recurring role in the long-running BBC soap EastEnders from 2005.
During his stint on Albert Square, which lasted on and off until 2017, Keating often appeared alongside characters including regular churchgoer Dot Cotton, played by the late June Brown.
Source: Press Association
