Game Of Thrones Actor J.J. Murphy Dies Shortly After Filming First Scenes

Irish actor J.J. Murphy has died, just four days after filming his first scenes as Ser Denys Mallister in Game of Thrones. Murphy was 86 (via The Belfast Telegraph).

Murphy is best known for his work in theater, but has appeared in films such as Mickybo and Me, Cal, and Angela's Ashes. He also plays a village elder in the soon to be released Dracula Untold.

"His passion for theatre, for the welfare and betterment of actors and those who worked in the performing arts was always there. It was an integral part of the man," said Actress Maggie Cronin, who was an a member of the same actor's trade union, Equity.

"He was a lovely man and a lovely actor," said writer Damian Gorman, who worked with Murphy.

"He was a great actor and a gentleman," tweeted director Paula McFetridge from the award-winning Kabosh Theatre Company in Belfast.

"I have never encountered a man with more spirit, passion and love for his craft," said Murphy's agent Philip Young of the Independent Agency.

The Telegraph's report also states Young has received a number of sympathic messages and condolences from HBO.

HBO has not yet announced plans to recast Young's character, or refilm his scenes.