Derek Martin
ActingAbout Derek Martin
Derek Martin was one of the most authentic working class voices in British film and television since the 1970s. Born Derek William Rapp in 1933, Martin was in the RAF for his National Service and took up a series of jobs including road worker, Smithfield Meat Market porter, and professional gambler, before entering showbusiness as an extra and stunt performer in a variety of programmes including Doctor Who. He retired from stunt work following an injury on Elizabeth I in 1971 and moved into acting. His most famous break out role was as the corrupt detective Fred Pyle in GF Newman's controversial 1978 drama Law & Order. In the following decade Martin had major roles in TV dramas such as The Chinese Detective and King & Castle, and played James Cagney's aide in milos Forman's epic 1981 film Ragtime. In 2000, Martin joined the cast of EastEnders as Charlie, the patriarch of the Slater family, a role he continued to play on and off for sixteen years.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Derek Martin reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 26 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Drama
The majority of Derek Martin's filmography leans towards the Drama genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 23% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Derek Martin remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Doctor Who: Inferno, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Derek Martin Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Derek Martin's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Derek Martin.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | EastEnders: Pat and Mo | Charlie Slater | Flop | Similar → |
| 1996 | Boston Kickout | Ray Saunders | Hit | Similar → |
| 1992 | The Cutter | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1984 | The Hope and the Glory | Club Manager | Flop | Similar → |
| 1983 | The Aerodrome | Provo Sgt. Peters | Hit | Similar → |
| 1982 | Spaghetti House | Commissioner Hutchinson | Average | Similar → |
| 1982 | Jake's End | Corp | Flop | Similar → |
| 1981 | Ragtime | Waldo's Aide No. 2 | Hit | Similar → |
| 1981 | Priest of Love | Police Sergeant | Flop | Similar → |
| 1980 | Rifleman | Drill Sergeant | Flop | Similar → |
| 1980 | The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu | Museum Guard | Flop | Similar → |
| 1980 | Dark Water | Security guard | Flop | Similar → |
| 1979 | Print-Out | Colley | Flop | Similar → |
| 1978 | Another Day | Frank | Flop | Similar → |
| 1978 | Adventures of a Plumber's Mate | Motorcycle Dealer | Flop | Similar → |
| 1977 | Candleshoe | Policeman (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1977 | Doctor Who: Image of the Fendahl | David Mitchell | Hit | Similar → |
| 1976 | Bet Your Life | Jimmy | Flop | Similar → |
| 1976 | Diversions | Escort | Flop | Similar → |
| 1975 | Eskimo Nell | Floor Manager (uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1974 | Keep It Up, Jack! | Client with Swing (uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1973 | The Sex Thief | Doorman | Flop | Similar → |
| 1970 | Doctor Who: Inferno | UNIT Soldier | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1968 | The Big Switch | 1st Heavy | Flop | Similar → |
| 1965 | The Counterfeit Man | Guard | Flop | Similar → |
| 1964 | The Evil of Frankenstein | Roustabout (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
Derek Martin - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Derek Martin?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Derek Martin is "Doctor Who: Inferno" with a rating of 8.6/10.
How many movies has Derek Martin acted in?
Derek Martin has been featured in at least 26 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Derek Martin?
Other notable films include "The Aerodrome", "Doctor Who: Image of the Fendahl", and "Ragtime".