Brian Murphy, a distinguished English actor famous for his roles in “Man About the House” and “George and Mildred,” passed away at his Kent, England residence on February 2, 2025. He was 92 years old.
Three weeks prior to his death, Murphy was diagnosed with cancer in his spine and shoulders, after experiencing severe back pain. His wife, actress Linda Regan, was with him when he died.
His agent referred to the death as a “sudden attack and cut down.” Prior to his illness, Murphy was still active in his profession, having recently completed filming for a comedy. He was slated to start work on a new film in June 2025, where he would have starred alongside Regan, playing a married couple. Regan left a heartfelt tribute to her husband, writing, “My love for you will never die. RIP sweetheart,” she wrote.
Murphy, born Brian Trevor John Murphy on September 25, 1932 on the Isle of Wight, served in the Royal Air Force before embarking on a career in acting. He became a core member of Joan Littlewood’s impactful Theatre Workshop in the 1950s, where he performed in various Shakespeare productions and featured in Littlewood’s single feature film “Sparrows Can’t Sing.”
Murphy’s early career included significant work with the Theatre Workshop at Theatre Royal Stratford East, where he performed with future luminaries such as Barbara Windsor and Victor Spinetti. His time with the company established him as a versatile character actor, adept at both dramatic and comedic roles.
In 1973, Murphy’s career took off when he was cast as George Roper in “Man About the House,” running until 1976. The series was so successful that it was later adapted for American television as “Three’s Company.” The character of George Roper was notable for being frequently outsmarted by strong-willed women, particularly his wife Mildred, portrayed by Yootha Joyce. Following this success, Murphy and Joyce reprised their roles in the “George and Mildred” spin-off series from 1976 to 1979, which aired for five seasons before Joyce’s death in 1980.
Murphy’s extensive television career included guest roles on numerous popular series. He appeared in spy series and police dramas, including “The Avengers” and “Z-Cars.” Later roles included parts in “The Catherine Tate Show,” “Holby City,” and “Benidorm.” In the 2000s, he charmed viewers as the shy yet cunning Alvin Smedley in “Last of the Summer Wine” for eight seasons. His film credits included “The Boy Friend” and “The Devils.”
Murphy continued his strong ties to the theater throughout his career. His stage work included significant productions of “Sweeney Todd” and “When We Are Married.” His contribution to the entertainment world was honored in 1998 when he was featured on “This Is Your Life.”
Murphy’s personal life included two marriages. His first marriage to Carol Gibson gave him two sons. He met his second wife, “Hi-de-Hi!” actress Linda Regan, in 1990 during a play where they were cast as a married couple. They tied the knot in 1995.
Even in his later years, Murphy stayed active in regional theater productions and appeared as a guest on various television shows.
Murphy is survived by his wife Regan and his two sons, Trevor and Kevin, from his first marriage.
