Irish Actor Michael Patrick, 35, Succumbs to Motor Neuron Disease
Irish actor Michael Patrick, 35, has died after a battle with motor neuron disease. He passed away on Tuesday, April 7, at NI Hospice in Belfast.
Patrick received a diagnosis of MND in 2023. His wife, Naomi, said the family was broken-hearted and paid tribute to his warmth and humour.
Stage career and recognition
Patrick was widely praised for his work on stage. He played Richard III at the Lyric Theatre in 2024.
That production marked the first time a disabled actor played the Shakespearean king on the island of Ireland. The role also brought him a judges’ prize at the Stage Awards held at the Royal Opera House in London.
He and his writing partner, Oisín Kearney, formed a noted creative team. They first met at Cambridge University where Patrick studied physics and Kearney studied politics.
The pair ran the university’s Irish Society and collaborated on several shows. Their earlier work included a production of Frank McGuinness’s Someone to Watch Over Me.
Solo work and personal projects
In 2017, Patrick co-wrote My Left Nut with Kearney. The autobiographical piece dealt with loss and medical uncertainty.
In 2025 he performed My Right Foot at the Dublin Theatre Festival. The 70-minute solo show chronicled his experience with motor neuron disease.
Critics singled out the show for its blend of humour and candour. The performance was seen as a testament to his resilience.
Illness, decisions and funeral
Patrick’s father had died from MND when Patrick was a child. That family history shaped much of his work in later years.
This February he chose not to have a tracheotomy. He made the decision to spend more time at home rather than in hospital, after consulting his neurologist.
Offstage he was known as Michael Campbell. He leaves behind his wife, Naomi, and a grieving family.
The funeral will be held at 11am on Monday, April 13, at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Carryduff, County Down.
Legacy
Michael Patrick’s career advanced conversations about disability and access in theatre. His achievements will be remembered across the Irish arts community.
Filmogaz.com extends condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
