Brian McCardie has sadly passed away at the age of 59.
The Scottish actor, perhaps best known for his role as the villainous John Thomas ‘Tommy’ Hunter in BBC's Line of Duty, passed away on Sunday (April 28).
The heartbreaking news was confirmed in a social media post, reading: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian James McCardie, beloved son, brother, uncle and dear friend to so many.
"Brian passed away suddenly at home on Sunday 28th April. A wonderful and passionate actor on stage and screen, Brian loved his work and touched many lives, and is gone much too soon. We love him and will miss him greatly; please remember Brian in your thoughts.
"Funeral arrangements will be announced in the days ahead."
McCardie has also appeared in the acclaimed BBC drama Time, alongside Stephen Graham and Sean Bean.
He also wowed fans with his portrayal of Sir Marcus MacRannoch in the historical drama Outlander.
Other credits include 200 Cigarettes, Snatch, Murphy's Law, Shameless, Filth, and The Long Shadow.
Despite being in some action-packed roles, McCardie revealed in an interview with The Scottish Herald last year, the actor actually enjoys a quiet life off-screen.
"I guess I’m quite boring," he said. "I like to go to work, do my best, and come home."
During the interview, he expressed his passion for photography, writing poetry, and being among nature.
In 2021, McCardie spoke to the Radio Times about his recent influx of playing baddies, to which he joked: “Maybe someday I’ll work my way up to being a Bond villain.
Explaining why he believes he is often seen as a great villain actor, he said: "I suppose it’s because I have a gravelly voice and my accent can come across quite aggressively if required.
"When I was younger, I worried about being pigeon-holed but I spent years playing some lovely wee guys. It’s been a novelty over the past decade to get baddies. "
Our thoughts go out to McCardie's family, friends, and fans at this time.
