Irish actor Michael Patrick's wife shares moving tribute after his passing
Michael Patrick, a pioneering actor from Belfast, has passed away at the age of 35.
The star’s career in theatre was significantly changed when he received a motor neurone disease diagnosis in 2023.
Known offstage as Michael Campbell, he became the first actor with a disability to play the Shakespearean role of Richard III in Ireland two years ago.
Michael Patrick, a pioneering actor from Belfast, has passed away at the age of 35. Pic: Michael Patrick/Instagram
The adaptation earned him the Judges’ Award at the Stage Awards in January 2025.
He also received the Overcoming Adversity Award at the Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards in the same year, recognising his continued work and advocacy following the diagnosis.
After living with MND for the past three years, Michael passed away in the Northern Ireland Hospice on April 7.
Michael passed away in the Northern Ireland Hospice on April 7. Pic: Michael Patrick/Instagram
His wife, Naomi, announced his death in a heartbreaking social media post, where she said he ‘passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends’.
Michael had been admitted to the hospice 10 days ago, with Naomi adding that an ‘incredible team’ took care of him.
She wrote: ‘Words can’t describe how broken-hearted we are.
Naomi announced his death in a heartbreaking social media post. Pic: Michael Patrick/Instagram
‘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.’
Tributes have been paid to Michael in the wake of the news. Pic: Michael Patrick/Instagram
Naomi shared a quote from Irish poet Brendan Behan, which she said Michael loved and ‘feels appropriate now’.
It read: ‘The most important things to do in the world are to get something to eat, something to drink and somebody to love you.’
Naomi added: ‘So, don’t overthink it. Eat. Drink. Love.’
Tributes have been paid to Michael in the wake of the news, with many sharing their condolences online.
The MND Association commented: ‘We are so sorry to hear that Mick has died, Naomi. He was a great advocate for motor neurone disease, a talented actor and a lovely man. We are sending you lots of love and remain here to support you.’
Comedian Pierre Novellie added: ‘One of the best men I ever met – frighteningly talented and always clever, funny and generous. I was fortunate to have known him. Sending you guys strength and love.’
