Michael Patrick, "Game of Thrones" Actor, Dies at 35 After Battle with Neurological Condition

Acclaimed actor Michael Patrick, who was featured in the popular series "Game of Thrones," has died at the age of 35.

The Irish performer, also recognized as Michael Patrick Campbell, received a diagnosis of motor neurone disease (MND) in February 2023. Despite his condition, he went on to create and perform in an adaptation of "The Tragedy of Richard III," where the title character, like Patrick, had MND and used a wheelchair.

His performance earned him an award at The Stage Awards last year.

Michael Patrick's wife, Naomi, confirmed his passing on social media on Wednesday, April 8. She stated that he died the previous day at the Northern Ireland Hospice, having been admitted 10 days prior.

"He passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends," she wrote. "Words can't describe how broken-hearted we are."

She further described him as an inspiration, stating, "It's been said more than once that Mick was an inspiration to everyone who was privileged enough to come into contact with him, not just in the past few years during his illness but in every day of his life. He lived a life as full as any human can live. Joy, abundance of spirit, infectious laughter. A titan of a ginger- haired man."

Naomi concluded her heartfelt announcement with a quote from Irish poet Brendan Behan: "The most important things to do in the world are to get something to eat, something to drink and somebody to love you. So, don't overthink it. Eat. Drink. Love."

Patrick's acting career included a role as a Wildling Rioter in "Game of Thrones" in 2016. His other television credits include "The Spectacular," BBC One's "Blue Lights," Steven Knight's "This Town," and BBC Three's "My Left Nut," which he also co-wrote.

In 2024, he took on the lead role in "The Tragedy of Richard III" at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast. The production featured him in a wheelchair, portraying Richard III as a royal afflicted with Motor Neurone Disease. This role led to him receiving the Judges' Award at The Stage Awards in January of last year.

Jimmy Fay, executive producer at the Lyric Theatre Belfast, paid tribute to Patrick, acknowledging that the theatre community had "lost a great artist."

He added, "He used the slings and arrows of the outrageous fortune thrown at him and turned them into visceral and vibrant art."