What Happened to Derek in Eastenders? Who Played Derek in Eastenders?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jul 25, 2023
Eastenders
EastEnders is a popular British television soap opera created by Julia Smith and Tony Holland, first aired on BBC One in February 1985. The show is set in the fictional district of Walford in London's East End and revolves around the lives of local residents and their families as they navigate their daily routines. Within a mere eight months of its debut, EastEnders soared to the top spot in BARB's television ratings and has consistently remained one of Britain's most-watched series.
Notably, four EastEnders episodes are among the all-time top 10 most-watched programs in the UK, with the 1986 Christmas Day episode claiming the number one spot, captivating over 30 million viewers. EastEnders has played a significant role in British television drama, tackling controversial and taboo subjects in British culture and providing insight into a social life seldom portrayed on mainstream UK TV.
The show's co-creator, Tony Holland, drew inspiration from his own large family in the East End, resulting in a central theme of strong families, with each character having a distinct role within the fictional community. Families such as the Beales, Brannings, Mitchells, Slaters, and the Watts have been at the heart of the soap's compelling and dramatic storylines. Filmed at the BBC Elstree Centre since its inception, EastEnders features an outdoor set susceptible to the elements. In 2014, the BBC announced ambitious plans to completely rebuild the set.
Filming for the new set commenced in January 2022, making its on-screen debut in March 2022. Subsequently, demolition of the old set commenced in November 2022. Throughout its run, EastEnders has garnered both praise and criticism for its daring storylines, often delving into difficult topics such as violence, rape, murder, and abuse. Notably, the 2010 baby swap storyline faced over 6,000 complaints.
The show has also faced criticism for alleged excessive violence and accusations of perpetuating national and racial stereotypes. Despite this, EastEnders has been lauded for its commitment to portraying real-life issues and raising awareness about social matters. The cast and crew have been recognized and nominated for numerous awards in acknowledgment of their impactful work.
What Happened to Derek in Eastenders?
In Eastenders, Derek Branning was the eldest of the Branning brothers, known for his troubled past and formidable presence. During his youth, Derek led a gang that struck fear into anyone who dared to cross their path. However, his criminal activities eventually caught up with him, leading to a prison sentence where his life hung in the balance. Despite his menacing demeanor, Derek secretly longed to reclaim his position as the head of the Branning family, a role he felt he had lost for the past three decades.
He was determined to eliminate anyone who stood in his way, and his actions proved that he was not one to be trifled with. Unbelievably, behind his tough exterior, Derek possessed an unexpected charm that seemed to attract the ladies. Nonetheless, his dark and manipulative tendencies overshadowed any potential for lasting relationships. The hope for redemption emerged when his daughter, Alice, returned to his life. It was anticipated that this reunion might bring out a softer side of Derek.
Though he had a heroic moment when he saved his son, Joey, and niece, Lauren, from a burning building, he quickly reverted to his villainous ways. Derek resorted to blackmailing Joey and his sister-in-law, Tanya, and seized every opportunity to taunt Jack's girlfriend, Sharon. His actions hit an all-time low when he engaged in an affair with Kat Slater, a revelation that disgusted the residents of Albert Square and shattered poor Alfie's heart.
However, Christmas Day marked a turning point for Derek. His brothers, Max and Jack, reached their limit and disowned him, expelling him from the family home. The intense confrontation took a toll on Derek, and in his agitated state, he suffered a fatal heart attack. As Derek's life hung in the balance, his brothers, son, and ex-lover watched from a distance, hesitant to intervene until it was too late. They allowed him to succumb to his fate without coming to his aid.
The aftermath of this tragic event left them grappling with the weight of their conscience, unsure if they could ever find peace with themselves after what had transpired. Derek Branning's demise on that Christmas Day marked the end of a complex and tumultuous journey, leaving a lingering sense of regret and questions about the consequences of their actions for those who witnessed his untimely end.
Derek's Role in Eastenders
Derek Branning is a fictional character in the BBC soap opera EastEnders, made his first appearance in 1996, portrayed by Terence Beesley, and later by Jamie Foreman from 2011 to 2012. As the eldest child of Jim and Reenie Branning, Derek initially appeared in a limited capacity, attending his sister April's wedding before departing shortly after. However, he returned as a regular character in late 2011.
In his earlier portrayal, Derek was depicted as a racist and disapproved of his sister Carol's marriage to Alan Jackson. Upon his return, the character underwent a transformation, being described as a "charmer" with a strong East-End personality. He was portrayed as "dodgy" and having a "psycho" edge. Viewers were warned to expect "danger" and "destruction" from Derek as his storyline developed, making him a central antagonist on the show in 2012.
Throughout his time on EastEnders, Derek Branning was known for his "old school" mannerisms and complex personality. He exuded a commanding presence and was not one to be underestimated. Despite the more charming façade he presented, Derek still had a dark side that made him a formidable figure within the community.
One of the significant storylines involving Derek was his affair with Kat Moon, which came to light during a Christmas episode in 2012, adding to the complexity of his character and causing turmoil among the residents of Albert Square. Unfortunately, Derek's time on the show was tragically cut short when he suffered a heart attack on Christmas Day in 2012.
His death marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of being one of EastEnders' most memorable antagonists. Throughout his stint on the soap, Derek Branning brought a mix of charm, danger, and unpredictability, leaving a lasting impact on both the characters in the show and the viewers who watched his gripping storyline unfold.
Who Played Derek in Eastenders?
Derek Branning in EastEnders was played by Jamie Foreman. He took on the role of Derek Branning in the soap opera from 2011 to 2012, before Jamie Terence Beesley, who portrayed the character in 1996. Jamie Foreman, born on May 25, 1958, is an English actor known for his roles in various films, including Duke in "Layer Cake" (2004) and Bill Sikes in Roman Polanski's adaptation of "Oliver Twist" (2005).
In addition to his portrayal of Derek Branning in EastEnders, Jamie Foreman has had a diverse acting career. He appeared alongside Ray Winstone and Kathy Burke in Gary Oldman's "Nil by Mouth" (1997) and featured in movies like "Elizabeth" (1998), "Gangster No. 1" (2000), and "Sleepy Hollow" (1999). He also played Basta in the film "Inkheart" (2008) and appeared in the Doctor Who episode "The Idiot's Lantern" in 2006.
Beyond his work in film and television, Foreman has also been involved in radio productions for BBC Radio, including playing the title role in "Wes Bell" and featuring in the series "Hazelbeach." He played a small role in "Law and Order: UK" and has narrated television shows such as "Double Decker Driving School" in 2015. Jamie Foreman comes from a family with a colorful background, as his father, Freddie Foreman, was a former south London gangster. In his personal life, he was married to actress Carol Harrison, and they have a son named Alfie. Additionally, Foreman is a fan of Tottenham Hotspur F.C.
What Happened to Derek in Eastenders - FAQs
Derek Branning, a character played by Jamie Foreman, met a tragic end on Christmas Day in 2012 when he suffered a fatal heart attack.
Yes, Derek Branning played a central role as one of the main antagonists in the soap opera during his time on the show.
Initially portrayed as a racist and menacing character, Derek's personality later transformed into a "charmer" with a dangerous edge, bringing unpredictability and danger to the show.
Derek Branning's death was a result of a heart attack that occurred on Christmas Day in 2012. The character was disowned by his brothers Max and Jack before his demise.
Derek Branning was portrayed by Jamie Foreman, and his last appearance on the show was in December 2012 when the character died of a heart attack.