Brian Murphy, the English actor renowned for his roles in “Man About the House” and “George and Mildred,” died on February 2, 2025 at his home in Kent, England. He was 92.

Murphy had been diagnosed with cancer in his spine and shoulders approximately three weeks before his death following complaints of back pain. His wife, actress Linda Regan, was by his side when he passed away. 

His agent described the death as a “sudden attack and cut down.” Before his illness, Murphy had been actively working, having filmed a comedy before Christmas, and was scheduled to begin production on a new film in June 2025, where he would have co-starred with Regan as a husband and wife duo. “My love for you will never die. RIP sweetheart,” Regan wrote in a tribute to her husband.

Born Brian Trevor John Murphy on September 25, 1932 on the Isle of Wight, Murphy completed his military service in the Royal Air Force before pursuing an acting career. He became a foundational member of Joan Littlewood’s influential Theatre Workshop in the 1950s, performing in numerous Shakespeare productions and appearing in Littlewood’s sole 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 alongside future stars like Barbara Windsor and Victor Spinetti. His work with the company established him as a versatile character actor capable of dramatic and comedic roles. 

Murphy’s breakthrough came in 1973 when he was cast as George Roper in “Man About the House,” which ran until 1976. The series achieved such success that it was adapted for American television as “Three’s Company.” The character of George Roper was known for being constantly outmaneuvered by strong-willed women, particularly his wife Mildred, played by Yootha Joyce. Following this success, Murphy and Joyce continued their roles in the “George and Mildred” spin-off series from 1976 to 1979. The show ran for five seasons until Joyce died in 1980. 

His extensive television career included guest appearances on numerous popular series. He appeared in spy series and police procedurals, including “The Avengers” and “Z-Cars.” Later appearances included roles in “The Catherine Tate Show,” “Holby City,” and “Benidorm.” In the 2000s, he delighted audiences as the timid but devious Alvin Smedley in “Last of the Summer Wine” for eight seasons. His film work included roles in “The Boy Friend” and “The Devils.” 

Throughout his career, Murphy maintained strong connections to the theater. His stage work included notable productions of “Sweeney Todd” and “When We Are Married.” His contribution to entertainment was celebrated in 1998 when he became the subject of “This Is Your Life.”

Murphy’s personal life included two marriages. His first marriage to Carol Gibson produced two sons. He met his second wife, “Hi-de-Hi!” actress Linda Regan, in 1990 during a theatrical production where they were cast as husband and wife. They married in 1995. 

In his later years, Murphy remained active in regional theater productions and was featured as a guest on television shows.

He is survived by Regan and his two sons, Trevor and Kevin, from his first marriage to Gibson.