Only Fools And Horses star Patrick Murray has died aged 68.
He was best known to fans as wheeler-dealer Mickey Pearce, who he played in 20 episodes of the BBC sitcom.
News of Murray’s death was shared via a fan page of the much-loved comedy. Taking to X/Twitter, they shared a statement which read: “It is with heartfelt sadness that we report the death of our friend Patrick Murray – Mickey Pearce to so many.
“He was a regular attendee of our conventions, and we will miss his humour and the joy he brought to many.”
Tributes have since poured out from fans, many of whom have taken to social media to share their favourite on-screen moments of Murray’s. After quoting his droll one-liner: “Oh look who’s here, it’s the coach busters,” one fan wrote that Murray’s memory would “live on” as Mickey Pearce.
“Such an underrated character,” they wrote. “Hope he’s having a few drinks up there in the Nag’s Head with the rest of the cast who we have lost. RIP Pat.”
“This is a sad one for me,” added another fan of the show. “Takes me back to the mid 90’s watching it at home with my Mum, Dad and Grandad. Mickey Pearce always dropped in the best one liners, never a dull moment with him around.”
The official Only Fools Facebook page also paid tribute, writing: “Patrick’s unforgettable portrayal of Mickey – the trilby-wearing wide-boy, always on the make and often leading Rodney into trouble – brought laughter to millions and made him a cherished part of the show.
“Away from the screen, Patrick was warm, kind and genuine. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this very sad time.”
Per The Independent, the actor underwent surgery and chemotherapy to remove a cancerous lung tumour back in 2021. Further testing later found another tumour in his liver, although it was considered unconnected to his lung cancer and was treatable.
Then, in 2023, the actor revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer for a second time, and shared with fans that he had undergone surgery to remove the tumour and half his liver.
Aside from Only Fools and Horses, Murray starred in films including Scum, Quadrophenia and The Firm, and had retired from acting after the sitcom came to an end, and instead took up taxi driving.
After a spell away from onscreen appearances, he returned to acting in 2015 and featured in Endeavour.
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