Musician and actor Wilko Johnson dies aged 75

He played Ser Ilyn Payne in the HBO epic but earlier found fame with his distinctive style of guitar in the band Dr Feelgood.

Game of Thrones actor and punk musician Wilko Johnson has died aged 75.

Johnson played Ser Ilyn Payne in the HBO epic but earlier found fame with his distinctive style of guitar in the band Dr Feelgood.

A statement from the band said: “This is the announcement we never wanted to make, & we do so with a very heavy heart: Wilko Johnson has died.

“He passed away at home on Monday 21st November. Thank you for respecting the family’s privacy at this very sad time. RIP Wilko Johnson.”

Stream more entertainment news live & on demand with Flash. 25+ news channels in 1 place. New to Flash? Try 1 month free. Offer available for a limited time only >

Wilko Johnson played Ser Ilyn Payne in Game of Thrones. Picture: HBO

Johnson - born as John Peter Wilkinson - was an English teacher before he rose to fame as part of the punk movement.

He kicked off his acting career in 2011 as Ser Ilyn Payne in Game of Thrones.

Johnson was initially a guest star in the first season of the show but reappeared in season two.

He was phased out of the show after he was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer in 2013 and given just 10 months to live.

However, another doctor gave him a second opinion and a major operation prolonged his life.

Johnson was officially cancer-free by 2014.

Wilko Johnson receives the Innovator Award at the Classic Rock Roll of Honour in 2013 (Photo by Jo Hale/Getty Images)

Originally published as Musician and actor Wilko Johnson dies aged 75