Brian Murphy, the distinguished English actor known for his roles in “Man About the House” and “George and Mildred,” passed away at his home in Kent, England on February 2, 2025. He was 92 years old.
Approximately three weeks prior to his death, Murphy was diagnosed with cancer of the spine and shoulders. He had been experiencing back pain. His wife, fellow actress Linda Regan, was with him when he died.
His agent characterized the death as a “sudden attack and cut down.” Before falling ill, Murphy had been working actively, having shot a comedy just before Christmas. He was slated to start production on a new film in June 2025, where he and Megan would have portrayed a married couple. “My love for you will never die. RIP sweetheart,” Regan posted in a tribute to her late husband.
Brian Trevor John Murphy was born on September 25, 1932 on the Isle of Wight. After completing his military service in the Royal Air Force, he embarked on an acting career. Murphy was a key member of Joan Littlewood’s influential Theatre Workshop in the 1950s, where he acted in numerous Shakespeare productions and starred in Littlewood’s only feature film “Sparrows Can’t Sing.”
Early in his career, Murphy worked extensively with the Theatre Workshop at Theatre Royal Stratford East, sharing the stage with future stars like Barbara Windsor and Victor Spinetti. His performances with the company showcased his versatility as a character actor, equally adept at drama and comedy.
Murphy’s career took a leap forward in 1973 when he starred in the role of George Roper in “Man About the House,” a series that ran until 1976. The show was so successful that it was adapted into the American sitcom, “Three’s Company.” Murphy’s character, George Roper, was often outsmarted by strong-minded women, especially his wife Mildred, played by Yootha Joyce. After this success, Murphy and Joyce reprised their roles in the “George and Mildred” spin-off series from 1976 to 1979. The show aired for five seasons until Joyce’s death in 1980.
His extensive television career featured guest roles on many popular series. He appeared in spy series and police dramas, including “The Avengers” and “Z-Cars.” Later roles included parts in “The Catherine Tate Show,” “Holby City,” and “Benidorm.” In the 2000s, he won audiences over as the shy but crafty Alvin Smedley in “Last of the Summer Wine” for eight seasons. His film credits included roles in “The Boy Friend” and “The Devils.”
Murphy remained closely connected to the theater throughout his career. He starred in notable productions of “Sweeney Todd” and “When We Are Married.” His contribution to entertainment was recognized in 1998 when he became the focus of “This Is Your Life.”
Two marriages marked Murphy’s personal life. His first marriage to Carol Gibson resulted in two sons, Trevor and Kevin. He met his second wife, “Hi-de-Hi!” actress Linda Regan, in 1990 during a play where they were, fittingly, cast as a married couple. They tied the knot in 1995.
Even in his later years, Murphy stayed active in regional theater productions and made guest appearances on television shows.
He is survived by his wife Regan, and his two sons.