JJ Murphy, the veteran Northern Irish actor who had just joined the cast of Game of Thrones, died suddenly on Friday. The 86-year-old was just four days into filming the role of Ser Denys Mallister - a new character to be introduced in the show's fifth season. He had reportedly told friends he was "excited" to be working on the cult hit series, and was due to film more scenes. His death has left the fate of his character has in doubt.
It's not clear whether the part will be recast - and if so, whether his scenes will be reshot. His character, Ser Denys, is an elder of the Night's Watch, who has commanded the Shadow Tower for thirty-three years. Mr Murphy was best known as a theatre actor, appearing at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast for many years. He was due to appear in big budget horror movie Dracula Untold, and was famed for his "deep, comforting and regal" voice acting work.
He was also a continuity announcer for UTV in the 1980s. Author and journalist Eamonn Mallie described Mr Murphy as "The man with the mellifluous voice." Actress Maggie Cronin told the Belfast Telegraph, "His passion for theatre, for the welfare and the betterment of actors and those who worked in the performing arts was always there. It was an integral part of the man." Mr Murphy is survived by his wife, Mary and their grown up family. His funeral is expected to take place on Wednesday.
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