Only Fools and Horses' Patrick Murray last photo as fan shares kind gesture

Only Fools and Horses actor Patrick Murray made a very sweet gesture to a fan before his tragic death. It was announced this week that the actor, known for playing Mickey Pearce, had died at the age of 68.

Patrick had battled lung cancer, and a later scan revealed that he had a tumour on his liver, resulting in him having surgery to remove half of his liver. In May 2022, he announced that he had been given the all clear on his lung cancer after undergoing successful treatment.

Heartbreakingly, just a year later, he announced that his lung cancer had returned and had metastasised. The BBC star, who was known to Only Fools fans as Cockney chancer Mickey, died in his sleep.

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Now, a super fan of the show has revealed a sweet encounter with Mickey after his dad was receiving treatment at the same time.

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Councillor Paul Canal, the Leader of the Conservative Party in the Bridge ward, shared a picture of Patrick taken in his hospice bed. He said: "My father shared a ward at Wisdom Hospice with 'Micky Pierce' aka Patrick Murray.

"On my first visit to Dad 4 weeks ago he gave me a signed photo, which I will frame. I also met his lovely wife Anong and their beautiful daughter Josie. It was a wonderful family. Condolences and love to all the family and friends. In the picture 'Mickey' is wearing my hat!)"

On Thursday, the official Only Fools and Horses social media page announced the death of Patrick. Alongside a snap of him on the show, they said: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Patrick Murray, who played Mickey Pearce in Only Fools and Horses.

"Patrick's unforgettable portrayal of Mickey – the trilby-wearing wide-boy, always on the make and often leading Rodney into trouble – brought laughter to millions and made him a cherished part of the show. Away from the screen, Patrick was warm, kind and genuine. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this very sad time."

On X, The Only Fools podcast announced: "This never gets easier … rest in peace, Patrick Murray. Patrick was a very talented & clever actor with impeccable timing. He really brought 'Mickey Pearce' to life with a mischievous charm."

A BBC spokesperson said: "We are very sad to hear of the passing of Patrick Murray, much loved for his role as Mickey in Only Fools and Horses. Our thoughts are with his friends and family."

Sue Holderness, who famously played Marlene in the sitcom, added on social media: "RIP darling Patrick. Much love. You will be greatly missed." Patrick played the role of Mickey in 20 episodes of Only Fools and Horses during its 22-year run from 1983 to 2003 and like Del Boy was known for wheeling and dealing in black market goods.

The trilby-wearing entrepreneur was renowned for his outlandish claims about his success in both business and with women, and frequently took advantage of pal Rodney's inexperience in the trade.

After the show ended in 2003, he landed several big-screen roles, including The Firm and Curse Of The Pink Panther. He later turned his back on acting and decided to become a taxi driver.

Patrick also spent a decade living in Thailand, where he married his Thai partner Anong in 2016. Their daughter Josie was born in Thailand shortly after their wedding.

During a 2018 appearance on Loose Women, Patrick revealed that he had to come back to the UK in order to get a visa for his family. The move came after the Home Office rejected their application because he apparently didn't earn enough money to support them.

He opened up about the ordeal, calling the decision by the Home Office "heartbreaking." With no acting work on the horizon, Patrick took up work as a chauffeur, driving an executive Mercedes, all while missing precious moments with his family.

He reflected: "Being out of the industry for so long, the work dried up, so I went back to driving an executive car, a Mercedes, to do it. I only saw my baby on the phone for two years; I was a Skype dad."

The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.

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