Actor Michael Campbell Dies Aged 35
An actor diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND), who earned one of the UK's most prestigious drama awards for his acclaimed performance as Richard III in a wheelchair, has passed away at the age of 35.
Michael Campbell, also known by the name Michael Patrick, was diagnosed with the terminal illness in February 2023. He died on Tuesday at NI Hospice.
Lyric Theatre Belfast, where Campbell performed the lead role in Shakespeare's Richard III, expressed deep sorrow upon learning of his death.
In a statement, Lyric's executive producer Jimmy Fay paid tribute to Campbell, stating:
"These islands have lost a great artist, and the sky is brighter tonight with his star."
Fay noted that Campbell, a Belfast native, had been a valued member of the Lyric family for many years.
"Mick showed great strength and dignity in light of his diagnosis MND,"
Fay added,
"He remained resilient and focused, creating dynamic work throughout his struggles.
We at the Lyric pay tribute to his remarkable talent and send our deepest condolences to his wife Naomi, his mother and sisters, and all his friends, family and colleagues at this sad time."
Recognition for Richard III Adaptation
In January 2025, Campbell's work in creating and starring in his adaptation of The Tragedy of Richard III was honoured at a distinguished ceremony.
He received a standing ovation after winning the Judges' Award at The Stage Awards, which celebrate theatre achievements across the UK. The event took place at London's Royal Opera House.
At that time, Campbell told NI that he and his writing partner Oisín Kearney had adapted Shakespeare's play with his own illness in mind.
"In Shakespeare's version Richard III is deformed from birth,"
he explained.
"They found his skeleton in a car park and it looked like he had scoliosis."
"We changed it so that at the start of the play Richard gets news that he's got a terminal illness, something like MND that's going to get worse,"
he said.
Understanding Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
MND is a condition affecting the nerves in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle movement.
The disease causes progressive muscle weakness and can significantly reduce life expectancy.
It is a relatively rare condition, most commonly affecting individuals over 50, although adults of any age may develop it.
Currently, there is no cure for MND, but treatments are available to help manage symptoms.
Campbell's Journey with MND
Campbell began experiencing symptoms while performing in a show at the Dublin Fringe Festival three years ago. He had also appeared in the award-winning police drama Blue Lights.
Less than a year after his diagnosis, his condition had progressed to the point where he could no longer stand and required a wheelchair.
In his most recent social media post in February, Campbell revealed that his neurologist had given him approximately one year to live. He had chosen not to undergo a tracheostomy, an artificial airway procedure to assist breathing, preferring to spend his remaining time outside of hospital care.
In the post, he expressed gratitude to those who had supported him through his illness, stating he was overwhelmed by their generosity.
Writing as Catharsis
Campbell previously told NI that writing about his condition was challenging but also therapeutic.
"You really have to tap in to what you're feeling and what you're going through, which is difficult, but at the same time it allows you to find the funny side of things,"
he said.
"It does help with my own head writing about it."
Legacy and Impact
Lyric Theatre stated that Campbell's contributions as both a writer and actor had a profound impact.
Jimmy Fay remarked on Campbell's portrayal of Richard III:
"Michael Patrick's portrayal of Richard III in a now legendary production was one of the greatest performances ever on the Lyric stage,"
he said.
"In its eloquence, wit and haunting bravery, he was inspirational."
