Brian McCardie, from Line of Duty, has suddenly died, his family have confirmed and fans are paying tribute to him after his death.
The 59-year-old star from Scotland played Tommy Hunter in the hit BBC series.
Brian’s sister Sarah McCardie shared the news of his death on X (Twitter).
She wrote: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian James McCardie (59), beloved son, brother, uncle and dear friend to so many. Brian passed away suddenly at home on Sunday 28th April. A wonderful and passionate actor on stage and screen, Brian loved his work and touched many lives, and is gone much too soon
“We love him and will miss him greatly; please remember Brian in your thoughts. Funeral arrangements will be announced in the days ahead. As a family, we would ask for privacy at this time.”
Brian McCardie’s representation, United Agents, also announced his death on social media.
They said: “We are shocked and so deeply saddened by the tragic news of Brian McCardie’s sudden death.
“He was an actor of such great talent who we were lucky to represent, and our thoughts are very much with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Line of Duty creator Jed Mercurio and executive producer Simon Heath said they were ‘honored’ to work with him.
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They said in a joint statement: “Brian was an incredibly talented actor, and the lasting impact he had as Tommy Hunter is testament to the power of his performance.
“Off-screen, Brian couldn’t have been more different from the character he played — he was warm, funny and charming. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.”
The celebrity was filming the Outlander prequel, Blood of My Blood, before his death, but Brian McCardie has appeared in other projects, including Filth, Time and Murder is Easy.
Tributes to the TV star have poured in since the tragic news.
One fan wrote: “The wonderful Brian McCardie has passed away. I’m devastated. Brian was the most watchable actor I ever had the privilege to work with. He was always alive and in the moment and as edgy as fu*k. As a man he was equally impressive. I adored working with him.”
A second added: “Shocked and devastated to learn of the passing of Brian McCardie. Brian was a brilliant friend and we had many discussions about mental health issues where he was a fantastic help to me. As well as that; he was a phenomenal actor. Sleep tight Brother.”
A third penned: “Devastated to hear about Brian McCardie. He was one of the funniest actors I ever worked with. Rest well Dougie Gillman. Same Rules Apply!”
The BAFTAs said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of actor Brian McCardie. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and peers at this difficult time.”
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