Belfast, Northern Ireland – Michael Patrick, a beloved actor and screenwriter, died at the age of 35 after a courageous three-year battle with motor neuron disease. His wife, Naomi Sheehan, shared the news on social media Wednesday, revealing that he passed away surrounded by family and friends at Northern Ireland Hospice on April 7.
Patrick received his diagnosis in early February 2023. Despite his illness, he married Sheehan later that year, maintaining a remarkable sense of humor and openness about his condition in his social media posts. In early 2026, he revealed that his neurologist estimated he had about a year left to live.
Born Michael Campbell in Belfast, Patrick distinguished himself as both a performer and writer. He initially studied science at the University of Cambridge before turning his focus to acting at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London. A member of the Cambridge Footlights comedy group and the National Youth Theatre, he made his mark on stage and screen alike. His role as a Wildling Rioter in HBO’s “Game of Thrones” showcased his talent to a broader audience, but he remained especially cherished in Northern Ireland for numerous impactful performances in local theater.
Patrick co-created the BBC Three comedy-drama “My Left Nut,” pulling inspiration from his own life experiences, including the loss of his father to motor neuron disease. The series achieved critical acclaim, winning multiple awards, including Best Drama at the Royal Television Society Northern Ireland Awards. It began as a one-man show and later transitioned into a celebrated television production.
His adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Richard III” at Belfast’s Lyric Theatre garnered significant attention, particularly because he performed the role from a wheelchair, making history as the first actor with a disability to portray Richard in Ireland. The performance won him the Judges’ Award at The Stage Awards in 2025, and he received a standing ovation at the prestigious Royal Opera House.
Following his diagnosis, Patrick redirected his energy into new creative projects. Along with Kearney, he developed the short film-to-series pitch “So You’re Going to Die” and created the solo show “My Right Foot,” which premiered at the Dublin Theatre Festival in 2025. Critics hailed his solo performance as an exemplar of humor and resilience.
Motor neuron disease encompasses various conditions that progressively damage motor neurons, leading to loss of muscle control. Although there is no known cure, research continues in search of effective treatments. Patrick’s specific form of the disease was never publicly disclosed, but the impact of his personal experiences deeply informed his art.
Sheehan’s heartfelt tribute on Instagram described Patrick as a “titan of a ginger-haired man” whose spirit and joy were infectious. She quoted Irish writer Brendan Behan, echoing Patrick’s belief in the importance of love, nourishment, and connection.
As Patrick faced the challenges of his illness, he remained engaged with his creative endeavors and devoted to raising awareness about disability. His final social media post on February 6 detailed his decision against a tracheostomy, highlighting both the practical considerations and his desire for quality of life.
Tributes poured in from the theatrical community in Northern Ireland following his passing. The Lyric Theatre expressed deep sorrow, with its executive producer labeling Patrick’s performance of Richard III as one of the greatest in the theatre’s history. The MAC Theatre acknowledged him as an extraordinary talent whose storytelling touched the lives of those who were fortunate to know him.
Patrick’s funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. on April 13 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Carryduff, County Down, offering friends and family an opportunity to celebrate the life and legacy of a remarkable artist.