Michael Keating has died
The sci-fi world mourns the passing of Michael Keating, the beloved actor behind Blake's 7's iconic Vila Restal. This news prompts deep nostalgia and appreciation for his nuanced portrayal of the universe's most 'cautious' thief. Hacker News commenters fondly recall his character's enduring legacy and even delve into the intriguing world of actor naming conventions.
The Lowdown
The Big Finish news site announced the death of Michael Keating, a prolific British actor best known for his indelible role as Vila Restal in the classic BBC science fiction series Blake's 7.
- Born in Edmonton, London, in 1947, Keating began his acting career in 1966, performing extensively in theatre across the UK before transitioning to television.
- He was the only cast member to appear in all 52 episodes of Blake's 7 (1978-1981), portraying Vila as a character more 'cautious' than cowardly, bringing warmth, wit, and humanity to the role.
- Beyond Blake's 7, his career included stints with the National Theatre and Old Vic, roles in Doctor Who (both TV and Big Finish audio dramas), and a recurring part as Reverend George Stevens in EastEnders.
- He was also remembered as a keen rambler, a voracious reader, and a thoughtful, easy-going individual.
- Keating continued to reprise his role as Vila for Big Finish audio productions, bringing the character to life for a new generation of fans until his final credit in early 2022.
- Big Finish producer Peter Anghelides lauded Keating's comedic timing and his crucial role in solidifying Vila's popularity, a character initially considered for removal from Blake's 7.
Michael Keating's extensive career, particularly his iconic portrayal of Vila Restal, left an enduring mark on British science fiction and television, earning him a lasting place in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
The Gossip
Vila's Valiance Versus Veracity
Commenters fondly reminisce about Michael Keating's portrayal of Vila Restal, highlighting his iconic 'cautious, not cowardly' nature. A specific quote from Keating about Vila's hypothetical survival in a tech-free world sparked debate, with one user contrasting it against an actual *Blake's 7* episode where Vila rejected such a life, arguing 'a thief isn't what I am, it's WHO I am.' The discussion underscores the character's depth and Keating's impact on his legacy.
Keaton's Quirky Kindred Names
A minor, but engaging, tangent emerged from a user's initial confusion between Michael Keating and Michael Keaton. This led to a discussion about Keaton's real name being Michael Douglas, prompting explanations about actor union rules often necessitating stage name changes to avoid confusion with existing registered actors. Examples like Michael J. Fox (née Michael Fox) were cited, humorously speculating on future actors needing increasingly complex names.