Game of Thrones actor Michael Patrick has died at the age of 35 after a long battle with motor neurone disease, according to a statement from his wife, Naomi Sheehan, and longtime creative partner Oisín Kearney. Sheehan said Patrick died peacefully at the Northern Ireland Hospice after being admitted 10 days earlier, while Kearney described him as “an actor of epic proportions.”
Patrick’s death has drawn attention to the rare but devastating illness that affected his final years. He was diagnosed after receiving a motor neurone disease diagnosis in February 2023, and his family said he faced the condition with courage, humor, and dignity.
Family and close collaborators share tributes
Sheehan announced the news in an emotional Instagram post and said Patrick was surrounded by family and friends when he died on Tuesday. She wrote that the actor had been cared for by the hospice team and said, “Words can’t describe how broken-hearted we are.”
Kearney also honored Patrick’s work in a statement to Fox News Digital, saying he could make audiences “laugh or cry in an instant.” He added that Patrick understood the balance between comedy and tragedy and believed “a play should never bore and always entertain.”
1. Key details from the announcement
- Patrick died at age 35.
- He died at Northern Ireland Hospice.
- He had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease in February 2023.
- His wife said he was surrounded by family and friends.
- His writing partner called him a major talent and a close friend.
Sheehan said Patrick inspired people not only during his illness but throughout his life. She described him as someone with “joy, abundance of spirit” and “infectious laughter,” and thanked supporters who stayed close during the past few years.
What motor neurone disease does
Motor neurone disease is a group of neurological disorders that progressively damage motor neurons, according to the Cleveland Clinic. These nerves control movement functions such as breathing, swallowing, chewing, talking, and walking.
As the condition advances, muscle control declines and disability can develop. There is currently no cure, and the disease can eventually be fatal.
Patrick’s screen and stage work
Patrick was known to many viewers for his role in Game of Thrones, and he also appeared in The Keeper, The Spectacular, Unhinged, and This Town. His credits reflected a career that moved between television, film, and stage work.
Friends and fans have also remembered him for his strong presence off-screen. Sheehan said he was “a titan of a ginger haired man,” while Kearney said he would be remembered as one of Ireland’s greats.
Patrick’s wife ended her tribute with a quote from Brendan Behan, urging people to “Eat. Drink. Love,” a line she said he loved. His death leaves behind a body of work that colleagues say matched his reputation as a performer who brought energy, warmth, and emotional range to every role.
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