Patrick Murray dies at 68: What happened to Only Fools and Horses’ Mickey Pearce?
Only Fools and Horses actor, Patrick Murray. Image Credit: BBC
Patrick Murray, best known for playing wheeler-dealer Mickey Pearce in the BBC sitcom Only Fools and Horses, has died at the age of 68.
The actor passed away following a long battle with cancer, a struggle he shared openly with fans in recent years. News of his death was confirmed by an Only Fools fan site, sparking an outpouring of tributes across social media.
Patrick Murray’s battle with cancer
In 2021, Murray revealed he had been diagnosed with lung cancer after doctors discovered a tumour in its early stages. He underwent surgery and chemotherapy to remove it. Soon after, another unrelated tumour was found in his liver, which he also fought with treatment.
By 2022, he said his lung cancer was “cured” and his liver tumour was shrinking. But in 2023, Murray announced the cancer had returned and spread despite what he described as the “wonderful efforts” of medics at King’s College Hospital.
He also underwent a transcatheter arterial chemoembolisation (TACE) procedure, a minimally invasive treatment to block blood supply to the tumour.
Iconic role in Only Fools and Horses
Murray first appeared as Mickey Pearce in 1983 and went on to star in 20 episodes of the beloved sitcom until it ended in 2003. His character, known for dodgy deals and sharp banter, was a memorable friend of Del Boy and Rodney Trotter.
Tributes described him as a “very talented and clever actor with impeccable timing” who brought Mickey Pearce to life with “mischievous charm.”
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Career beyond Only Fools
Away from Only Fools and Horses, Murray appeared in several notable films, including Scum and Quadrophenia (1979) and The Firm (1989). After the sitcom ended, he briefly stepped away from acting and worked as a taxi driver before returning with guest roles in Endeavour (2015) and Conditions (2019).
Personal life and family
Murray spent a decade living in Thailand, where he met his wife, Anong. The couple married in 2016 and had one daughter, Josie. He later returned to the UK to secure a visa for his family, but their application was rejected, forcing him to live apart and communicate with his daughter over video calls. He described the ordeal as “heartbreaking” in a 2018 interview on Loose Women.
Tributes pour in
Fans, co-stars, and Only Fools communities have flooded social media with tributes. One Only Fools podcast wrote: “This never gets easier … rest in peace, Patrick Murray. He brought joy, humour and heart to so many.”
Patrick Murray’s passing follows the deaths of other Only Fools legends, including John Challis (Boycie) and Roger Lloyd-Pack (Trigger). His legacy as Mickey Pearce remains cherished by fans worldwide.
FAQ on Patrick Murray
Who was Patrick Murray?
Patrick Murray was a British actor best known for playing Mickey Pearce in the BBC sitcom Only Fools and Horses. He also starred in films such as Scum, Quadrophenia, and The Firm.
How old was Patrick Murray when he died?
Patrick Murray died on 2 October 2025 at the age of 68.
How did Patrick Murray die?
Murray died following a long battle with cancer. He had previously been diagnosed with lung cancer and later developed a separate liver tumour. Despite treatment, the disease returned and spread.
What type of cancer did Patrick Murray have?
He was treated for lung cancer in 2021 and later developed an unrelated liver tumour. In 2023, he revealed the cancer had returned and spread.
When did Patrick Murray join Only Fools and Horses?
Murray joined the sitcom in 1983 and appeared in 20 episodes until 2003, playing the iconic character Mickey Pearce.
Who did Patrick Murray play in Only Fools and Horses?
He played Mickey Pearce, a wheeler-dealer friend of Del Boy and Rodney, known for his dodgy deals and cheeky humour.
What other shows and films was Patrick Murray in?
Aside from Only Fools and Horses, Murray appeared in Scum (1979), Quadrophenia (1979), The Firm (1989), Endeavour (2015), and Conditions (2019).
Did Patrick Murray stop acting?
Yes, after Only Fools and Horses ended, Murray retired from acting and became a taxi driver before returning briefly to acting in the 2010s.
Who was Patrick Murray’s wife?
Patrick Murray married Anong in 2016. The couple met while he lived in Thailand.
Did Patrick Murray have children?
Yes, he had a daughter named Josie with his wife Anong.
Which Only Fools and Horses stars have died?
Alongside Patrick Murray, notable cast members who have passed away include John Challis (Boycie) and Roger Lloyd-Pack (Trigger).
What is Patrick Murray’s legacy?
Patrick Murray is remembered for his comedic timing, his role as Mickey Pearce, and his contribution to one of Britain’s most loved sitcoms. Fans and colleagues have praised his humour, warmth, and impact on television.