The Irish actor Michael Patrick, known for his role in Game of Thrones, passed away after a three-year struggle with a rare illness at the age of 35. His wife, Naomi, announced his tragic death in an Instagram post on April 8, 2026.
“Last night, Mick sadly passed away in the Northern Ireland Hospice,” she shared, adding, “He was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease on February 1, 2023. He was admitted 10 days ago and received care from the incredible team there. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family and friends. Words can’t describe how broken-hearted we are.”
So, what is motor neurone disease? Here’s what we know about the condition that led to Michael’s untimely death.
What Character Did Michael Patrick Play in Game of Thrones?
Michael appeared as the character Wildling Rioter in a season 6 episode of Game of Thrones.
What Was the Cause of Michael Patrick’s Death?
As mentioned earlier, Naomi confirmed that Michael’s diagnosis with motor neurone disease led to his decline and eventual passing.
In her Instagram tribute, Naomi honored her late husband for being “an inspiration to everyone who was privileged enough to come into contact with him, not just during his illness but throughout his life.”
“He lived a life as full as any human can live—filled with joy, an abundance of spirit, and infectious laughter. A titan of a ginger-haired man,” she continued. “We are immensely grateful for every person who supported us through these last few years. Mick cherished this quote from Brendan Behan and it feels fitting now: ‘The most important things to do in the world are to get something to eat, something to drink and somebody to love you.’ So don’t overthink it. Eat. Drink. Love.”
The couple initiated a GoFundMe campaign in December 2025 to cover Michael’s tracheostomy expenses, raising $100,000.
What Is Motor Neurone Disease?
Motor neurone disease (MND) encompasses a group of neurological disorders that progressively damage a person’s motor neurons, as explained by the Cleveland Clinic. These motor neurons are nerve cells responsible for controlling muscle movements involved in basic activities such as walking, talking, and swallowing.
Messages from neurons in the brain are typically referred to as upper motor neurons and are transmitted to the spinal cord neurons known as lower motor neurons.
When muscles cannot receive messages from lower motor neurons, muscle stiffness often occurs.
Is There a Cure for Motor Neurone Disease?
Currently, there is no cure for MND.
