English actor Brian Murphy, best known for his roles in “Man About the House” and “George and Mildred,” passed away on February 2, 2025. He was at his residence in Kent, England at the time of his death. He was 92 years old.
Three weeks before his death, Murphy was diagnosed with cancer in his spine and shoulders after experiencing back pain. He was accompanied by his wife, actress Linda Regan, when he died.
According to his agent, his death was described as a “sudden attack and cut down.” Despite his illness, Murphy remained active in his work, having completed filming a comedy just before Christmas. He was slated to start filming a new movie in June 2025, where he was set to star alongside Regan. Regan shared a heartfelt tribute to her husband writing, “My love for you will never die. RIP sweetheart.”
Brian Trevor John Murphy was born on September 25, 1932 on the Isle of Wight. After completing his service in the Royal Air Force, he pursued a career in acting. He was a prominent member of Joan Littlewood’s Theatre Workshop in the 1950s where he participated in several Shakespeare productions and featured 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. He performed with future stars such as Barbara Windsor and Victor Spinetti, displaying his versatility as a character actor in both dramatic and comedic roles.
Murphy’s career took off in 1973 when he portrayed George Roper in “Man About the House,” a role he played until 1976. The show was so successful it was adapted into the American television series “Three’s Company.” His character, George Roper, was often bested by strong women, mainly his on-screen wife Mildred, played by Yootha Joyce. After the success of this show, Murphy and Joyce reprised their roles in the spin-off “George and Mildred” from 1976 to 1979. The series lasted five seasons until Joyce’s death in 1980.
Murphy’s prolific television career saw him guest star in various popular series. He featured in spy dramas and police procedurals, including “The Avengers” and “Z-Cars.” His later roles included parts in “The Catherine Tate Show,” “Holby City,” and “Benidorm.” From the 2000s, he entertained viewers as Alvin Smedley in “Last of the Summer Wine” for eight seasons. He also appeared in films such as “The Boy Friend” and “The Devils.”
Murphy maintained strong ties to the theater throughout his career. He worked in notable productions of “Sweeney Todd” and “When We Are Married.” In 1998, his contributions to the entertainment industry were honored when he was featured in “This Is Your Life.”
Murphy was married twice. His first marriage to Carol Gibson resulted in two sons. He met his second wife, “Hi-de-Hi!” actress Linda Regan, in 1990 during a theatrical production where they played a married couple. They tied the knot in 1995.
In his later years, Murphy continued to participate in regional theater productions and made guest appearances on television shows.
Murphy is survived by his wife, Regan, and his two sons, Trevor and Kevin, from his previous marriage.
