Tributes have been paid to actor B.J. Hogg best known for his role in Give My Head Peace who has died at the age of 65.
The actor also appeared in the HBO drama as Addam Marbrand, and in BBC’s The Fall.
But it was the character Big Mervyn in the comedy series Give My Head Peace that people came to know and love.
The comedy team behind Give My Head Peace, The Hole in the Wall gang, said in a statement that ‘BJ is part of the Give My Head Peace family. He was a fine actor, great colleague and a true friend. Our thoughts are with his wife Elish, son Nathan and daughter Abigail at this time.’
Give My Head Peace friend and co-star Tim McGarry said: ‘BJ isn’t just a colleague of ours or a great actor, he’s not just a friend, he’s part of the ‘Give My Head Peace’ family and we are very much a family.
‘I was on stage with him a few weeks ago and it’s just heartbreaking.
‘He was such a lovely guy. BJ, as you probably know, was a big guy but he was a big softie as well and it is just so, so sad.’
B.J. was also known for his role in the 1996 film Dance Lexie Dance, which was nominated for an Oscar in the Best Live Action Short Film category.
Peter Johnston, director of BBC NI, said: ‘BJ was a great comedy talent and a much-loved character in our long-running sitcom, Give My Head Peace.
‘Many people will also remember his performance in the Oscar-nominated Dance Lexie Dance.
‘Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad and difficult time.’
So sorry to hear of the death of BJ Hogg. Lovely guy. Travelled to oscars with him 1998. Nominated for Dance Lexie Dance. Great company pic.twitter.com/AtQPkFWyJm
— Maggie Taggart (@MaggieTaggart) April 30, 2020