Game of Thrones actor dies just days into shoot

JJ Murphy, not pictured, played a member of the Night's Watch in Game of Thrones' new season.

Game Of Thrones star JJ Murphy has died aged 86.

The Northern Irish actor passed away on Friday just four days after shooting his first scenes in the fifth series of the HBO show as Ser Denys Mallister, who was the oldest member of the show's military order, the Night's Watch.

According to the Belfast Telegraph newspaper, the star was due to shoot further scenes for the role and was said to have told pals he was excited to be working on the hugely popular TV series.

Murphy's agent Philip Young paid tribute to the late actor following the news.

He said: "I have never encountered a man with more spirit, passion and love for his craft."

As well as Game Of Thrones, Murphy was due to appear as a villager in upcoming movie Dracula Untold.

He starred in several other movies throughout his career including Angela's Ashes, Mickybo and Me and Cal.

Murphy, who is survived by his wife Mary, was also well known for his theatre work and played many parts at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast.

Game of Thrones bosses said they wouldn't recast the role.

"We will not be recasting JJ Murphy. He was a lovely man, and the best Denys Mallister we could have hoped for. And now his watch is ended," showrunners DB Weiss and David Benioff were reported as saying by The Wrap.

The Arts Council of Northern Ireland praised Murphy as a mentor to younger Belfast actors, including Liam Neeson.

Murphy's Belfast funeral is scheduled for Wednesday.

- Bang! Showbiz, AP and nzherald.co.nz