Actor and writer Michael Patrick has passed away at the age of 35.
The Irish-born performer, known for appearing in season six of Game of Thrones, died while receiving hospice care. His wife, Naomi Sheehan, shared the news on Instagram on Wednesday, April 8.
Patrick had been living with motor neurone disease, a progressive and incurable illness that damages the nerves responsible for movement, eventually preventing muscles from functioning. While ALS is the most common type of the disease, his family did not disclose his specific diagnosis.
Announcing his passing, Sheehan wrote:
“Last night, Mick sadly passed away in the Northern Ireland Hospice. He was diagnosed with motor neurone disease on 1st February 2023. He was admitted 10 days ago and was cared for by the incredible team there. He passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends. Words can’t describe how broken-hearted we are.”
According to the MND Association, the disease causes muscles to weaken, stiffen, and waste away, affecting basic functions such as walking, speaking, eating, drinking, and breathing. Though symptoms differ among individuals, it is widely considered a life-limiting condition.
Sheehan went on to celebrate her husband’s life and character, describing the lasting impression he made on others.
“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,” she wrote. “He lived a life as full as any human can live. Joy, abundance of spirit, infectious laughter. A titan of a ginger haired man.”
She also expressed appreciation to those who supported them throughout his illness, ending her tribute with a quote he loved from Brendan Behan;
“We are so grateful for every person who supported us through the last few years. Mick loved this quote from Brendan Behan and this feels appropriate now: ‘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. Naomi — Mick’s wife.”
In what would become his final social media update on February 6, Patrick revealed that his neurologist had given him an estimated one year to live, writing in part;
“still lots to live for and lots planned.”
Beyond Game of Thrones, Patrick featured in productions such as Blue Lights, This Town, and the BBC comedy series My Left Nut, which he co-created based on his teenage experiences. His acting credits also include appearances in Blasts from the Past and The Spectacular.
His most recent role was in the 2025 German TV film Mordlichtern – Tod auf den Färöer Inseln.
Patrick’s journey into acting began at the University of Cambridge, where he performed with the renowned Cambridge Footlights comedy troupe. He later honed his craft at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London.