‘Deeply sad’: Actor from legendary films dead
Tributes have flooded in for a veteran actor who appeared in a string of beloved films throughout his career.
Tributes have flooded in for British actor P.H. Moriarty who has died at the age of 86.
“Gentleman” Paul, who was best known for starring as Razors in 1980s gangster film The Long Good Friday, died peacefully in the company of his wife in the early hours last Sunday.
Appearing alongside Helen Mirren and Bob Hoskins, the former boxer highlighted the movie as the one that “made all the difference” and kickstarted his illustrious acting career.
Paul later featured in movies such as Jaws 3, the final instalment of the iconic trilogy, and Patriot Games, the sequel to The Hunt for Red October.
In 1998, he went on to play another violent character, Hatchet Harry, in Guy Ritchie’s award-winning crime movie Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.
He died with his wife by his side in the early hours last Sunday.
Confirming the actor’s death in a social media post, charity Orchid Cancer said: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of P.H. Moriarty.
“He was a talented actor best known for his roles in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and The Long Good Friday.
“A gifted voice actor and a dedicated supporter of Orchid, his contributions and unwavering commitment will always be remembered.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
At the age of 14, Paul met notorious gangster Jimmy Tippett Snr, nicknamed the Guv’nor of Lewisham, who “took him under his wing”.
Family friend Jimmy Tippett Jr told The Sun: “Paul met Dad when he was very young and they went on to become lifelong friends.
“They always took the time to see each other and Paul often came to see my Dad in care when he was suffering with dementia.
“I know that Paul died very peacefully, his wife was holding his hand the whole time and talking to him.”
Moriarty was born on 23 September 1938 in Deptford, London, England, where he was also raised.
The London-born originally worked as a boxer and docker before finding acting in his 50s.
He was discovered by a film crew who shot a scene at his workplace – the Surrey Commercial Docks.
hen starting his acting career, he decided to go by the stage name P. H. Moriarty in order to distinguish himself from the actor Paul Moriarty.
His last film credit was in 2021 as Ian Jarvis in gangster film Rise of the Footsoldier: Origins.
Over his long career, Moriarty also starred in Quadrophenia, Scum, A Sense of Freedom, The Riddle and Evil Never Dies.
The star also has a long list of television credits, which started in 1978 when he appeared in Law & Order.
Moriarty also starred in The Chinese Detective, Bird of Prey, The Professionals, The Bill, The Paradise Club and Doctors.
His last TV credit was in 2005 with the television film GB3-Being Young.
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Fans have paid tribute as one said: “Sad to hear about the passing today of actor PH Moriarty, aka Razors in The Long Good Friday.”
Another added: “So sorry to hear of the passing of P. H. Moriarty absolute gentleman “Razor” to some “Harry the hatchet” to others.”
This story originally appeared on The Sun and is republished here with permission.
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