Actor dies aged 35 after battle with motor neurone disease

TV and theatre actor Michael Patrick has died aged 35 after a battle with motor neurone disease.

The Belfast actor's death was announced by his wife Naomi in a social media post.

"Words can't describe how broken-hearted we are," she wrote.

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"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. We are so grateful for every person who supported us through the last few years."

The actor was admitted to Northern Ireland Hospice where he stayed for 10 days before passing away on Tuesday.

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The Game of Thrones star was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in February 2023.

According to Healthdirect, "Motor neurone disease (MND) is the name for a group of diseases that affect nerves known as motor nerves

"In MND, these motor neurons become damaged and die. Messages can no longer travel between your brain and muscles. This causes your muscles to become weaker and weaker. This eventually causes paralysis."

Patrick continued to work after his diagnosis, being renowned for his resolve despite his illness.

The actor, who starred in TV shows such as Blue Lights, Soft Border Patrol and My Left Nut, said performing and writing allowed him to focus on something other than his illness and remain positive through it.

The actor was known for his work in theatre, having even won the Judges' Award at the Stage Awards in January 2025 for his portrayal of Richard III in a wheelchair.

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He also received the Overcoming Adversity Award at the Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards in 2025 for his efforts and advocacy following his diagnosis.

Patrick regularly performed at the Lyric Theatre Belfast, with Executive producer Jimmy Fay paying tribute in the wake of his death.

"Mick showed great strength and dignity in light of his diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). He remained resilient and focused, creating dynamic work throughout his struggles. He performed on the Lyric stage just last November with his autobiographical My Right Foot," Fay shared in the statement.

"We at the Lyric pay tribute to his remarkable talent and send our deepest condolences to his wife Naomi, his mother and sisters, and all his friends, family and colleagues at this sad time.

"These islands have lost a great artist, and the sky is brighter tonight with his star."

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