Line of Duty star Brian McCardie has died aged 59

Line of Duty star Brian McCardie has died aged 59.

The actor. who was best known for his role as John Thomas 'Tommy' Hunter in the BBC police drama, passed away on Sunday (28 April), his family has announced.

In an emotional statement confirming the news on X, Sarah McCardie wrote: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian James McCardie (59), beloved son, brother, uncle and dear friend to so many.

Line of Duty star Brian McCardie has passed away. (BBC)

"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. As a family, we would ask for privacy at this time."

Author Paul Larkin paid tribute to his dear friend, tweeting on X: “Shocked and devastated to learn of the passing of Brian McCardie,

“Brian was a brilliant friend and we had many discussions about mental health issues where he was a fantastic help to me,

“As well as that; he was a phenomenal actor. Sleep tight Brother.”

Director Alan Bowman Clarke also paid respects to the late actor, saying: "I'm saddened to hear about the death of legendary actor Brian McCardie.

"I spoke to him a few times about projects and always found him genuine, passionate, generous and funny.

"I wrote a part for him in a future project. My thoughts go out to his family, friends and colleagues."

McCardie was also known for his roles in The Damned United, Filth and Our Ladies, among other acting credits.

He was best known for his role as John Thomas 'Tommy' Hunter in Line of Duty. (BBC)

He also recently joined the case of the Outlander prequel titled Blood of My Blood, where he was to play the chief of Clan Grant.

The actor's career was said to have spanned over 35 years on TV and cinema screens, recently starring in 2021 BBC crime drama Time and in Irvine Welsh's Crime on TV.

McCardie was said to be in Scotland recently, filming the Outlander prequel.

He was set to star alongside names like Sara Vickers, Harriet Slater, Jamie Roy and Peter Mullan in the highly anticipated series, which would have followed the parents of Outlander character Jamie Fraser.

McCardie had previously played the role of Sir Marcus MacRannoch in one episode during the original series.