Line Of Duty star Brian McCardie has died aged 59.
The Scottish actor was best known for his role as mafia boss John Thomas ‘Tommy’ Hunter in the BBC crime drama Line of Duty.
He also played the role of Sir Marcus MacRannoch in an episode of Outlander and recently joined the cast of the Outlander prequel Blood Of My Blood.
His heartbroken sister Sarah announced the news on social media. She wrote this on Tuesday on X, formerly known as Twitter.
She wrote: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian James McCardie, beloved son, brother, uncle and dear friend to so many.
Line of Duty star Brian McCardie dead: Actor, 59, who played John Thomas ‘Tommy’ Hunter, dies suddenly as heartbroken sister pays tribute
‘Brian passed away suddenly at home on Sunday April 28. A wonderful and passionate actor on stage and screen, Brian loved his work and touched many lives, and is gone far too soon.
‘We love him and will miss him dearly; please keep Brian in your thoughts.”
Brian recently appeared in the hit BBC Drama Time, starring Sean Bean and Stephen Graham.
His sister told BBC Scotland News that the family were ‘devastated’ by the loss.
Tributes have poured in on social media as friends and former colleagues are ‘shocked’ and ‘devastated’ by the news.
Producer Paul Larkin, a friend of Brian, paid tribute to him on ‘X’, formerly known as Twitter.
He said: “Shocked and devastated to hear of Brian McCardie’s death. Brian was a brilliant friend and we had many discussions about mental health issues, during which he was a fantastic help to me. As good as that; he was a phenomenal actor. Sleep well brother.”
Scottish actor Simon Weir said: ‘I’m just devastated. No one has made me laugh as much as you. I am proud to have been your friend and I will miss you more than words can say. Rest in peace, old friend.’
Kenny Doughty, agent at the Artists Partnership, added: “Very saddened to hear of the sudden passing of the immensely talented Brian McCardie. Had the pleasure of working with him and he was a real talent, fun and a good man. Will miss him. My condolences to his family.’