English actor Brian Murphy, best known for his performances 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.
Three weeks before his passing, Murphy was diagnosed with cancer in his spine and shoulders following complaints about back pain. His wife, Linda Regan, also an actress, was with him when he died.
Murphy’s agent characterized his death as a “sudden attack and cut down.” Despite his illness, Murphy had been actively working, filming a comedy before Christmas, and was slated to start work on a new film in June 2025. He was set to co-star with his wife, Regan, as a married couple. “My love for you will never die. RIP sweetheart,” wrote Regan in a tribute to her husband.
Born on September 25, 1932, on the Isle of Wight as Brian Trevor John Murphy, he served in the Royal Air Force before starting his acting career. He joined Joan Littlewood’s influential Theatre Workshop in the 1950s, where he became a core member, performing in various Shakespeare productions and starring in Littlewood’s only film, “Sparrows Can’t Sing.”
Murphy began his career with significant roles at the Theatre Workshop at Theatre Royal Stratford East, where he acted alongside future stars like Barbara Windsor and Victor Spinetti. His performances with the company showcased his versatility as an actor in both dramatic and comedic roles.
His big break came in 1973 when he was cast as George Roper in “Man About the House,” which aired until 1976. The series was so popular that it was adapted into the American television show “Three’s Company.” His character, George Roper, was often outsmarted by assertive women, especially his wife Mildred, portrayed 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 series continued for five seasons until Joyce died in 1980.
Murphy also made guest appearances on a variety of popular series. His credits include spy and police series such as “The Avengers” and “Z-Cars,” as well as later roles in “The Catherine Tate Show,” “Holby City,” and “Benidorm.” During the 2000s, he entertained audiences as the shy, cunning Alvin Smedley in “Last of the Summer Wine” for eight seasons. His film roles included “The Boy Friend” and “The Devils.”
Murphy continued his ties to the theater throughout his career. He appeared in notable productions of “Sweeney Todd” and “When We Are Married.” His contributions to entertainment were recognized in 1998 when he was featured in “This Is Your Life.”
Off stage, 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, during a 1990 theater production, where they were cast as a married couple. They wed in 1995.
In later years, Murphy stayed active in regional theater productions and featured on television shows.
He is survived by his wife, Regan, and his two sons, Trevor and Kevin, from his first marriage.