“Line Of Duty” and “Rob Roy” actor Brian McCardie has passed away suddenly at the age of 59, his agent confirmed.
The Scottish actor, raised in Carluke near Glasgow, received acclaim for his role as the gang leader turned police informant Tommy Hunter in the first two seasons of the popular BBC crime series.
His sister, Sarah McCardie, revealed on Tuesday (30 April) via an X/Twitter post that he died “suddenly at home” last Sunday.
Ms. McCardie described him as “an extraordinary and dedicated actor both on stage and on screen, who loved his profession and impacted many lives, departing far too early.”
She continued: “We cherished him and will miss him immensely, please keep Brian in your thoughts.”
McCardie’s career also included roles such as Cicero in the Roman-themed series “Domina,” Sir Marcus MacRannoch in the historical time-travel series “Outlander,” and Irish leader James Connolly in the 1916-set drama “Rebellion.”
Following her post, United Agents confirmed McCardie’s passing to the PA news agency.
Their statement expressed: “We are stunned and profoundly saddened by the sudden loss of Brian.
“He was an immensely talented actor whom we had the privilege of representing, and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this challenging time.”
In “Rob Roy,” McCardie portrayed Alasdair MacGregor, brother of the lead character played by Liam Neeson.
His other TV appearances included the recent Agatha Christie adaptation “Murder is Easy,” the mini-series “Titanic,” and the Dundee-based drama “Dog Days.”
Bafta Scotland shared on X/Twitter: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of actor Brian McCardie. Our condolences go to his family, friends, and colleagues at this tough time.”
Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning at BBC Scotland, described McCardie as a “gifted, adaptable actor.”
Thornton noted, “He was exceptional in portraying the formidable and pivotal character Tommy Hunter in the early seasons of Line of Duty.”
Born in Scotland, McCardie grew up in North Lanarkshire where he developed a passion for acting in school. He later resided in Rothesay, Scotland.
