Game of Thrones Star Dies at 35 After Private Health Battle
A highly acclaimed actor, recognized for his roles in the hit series “Blue Lights” and “Game of Thrones,” has passed away at the age of 35 following a brave battle with motor neurone disease (MND). Following his passing, his heartbroken wife has shared a touching public tribute.
Michael Patrick, who also went by the name Michael Campbell, received his MND diagnosis in 2022. According to an online obituary, the actor peacefully passed away on Tuesday at the NI Hospice, with his final moments spent “surrounded by his loving family and friends.”
Throughout his diverse career, the award-winning performer contributed his talents to radio, film, television, and theatrical productions. Among his most notable recent achievements, his stage adaptation of The Tragedy of Richard III won the prestigious Judges’ Award at the Stage Awards in January 2025.
Following his initial diagnosis, which progressed into early 2023, he eventually required the use of a wheelchair.
Taking to social media to share her grief, his wife, Naomi, wrote: “Words can’t describe how broken-hearted we are.”
She further expressed: “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 also shared her appreciation for their community, adding: “We are so grateful for every person who supported us through the last few years.”
A funeral mass to honor his life has been scheduled for this coming Monday.
Beyond his acting accolades, he was also honored with the Overcoming Adversity Award at the Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards in 2025, a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft and his advocacy work after falling ill.
Despite the severe physical toll of his health battle, the actor relentlessly pursued writing and performing. He effectively used his public profile as a platform to spread awareness about MND.
In previous interviews, he shared that writing provided him with a crucial escape, allowing him to shift his focus away from his condition and maintain a positive, creative outlook on life.
He is lovingly remembered and survived by his wife Naomi, his mother Pauline, his brother Maurice, his sisters Kate and Hannah, and his nephew Micheál.