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'Titan of a man' - tributes to actor with MND who played Richard III in wheelchair

'Titan of a man' - tributes to actor with MND who played Richard III in wheelchair

Summary

Michael Campbell, an actor diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), passed away at 35. He was known for his remarkable performance as Richard III in a wheelchair, which earned him a prestigious drama award in the UK. His contributions to theater were widely celebrated by colleagues and theaters in Belfast.

Key Facts

  • Michael Campbell was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in February 2023.
  • He performed as Richard III in a wheelchair, receiving a major UK drama award for his role.
  • Campbell died at the age of 35 at the NI Hospice.
  • His wife Naomi described him as inspirational, full of life, and with infectious laughter.
  • The Lyric Theatre Belfast and the MAC theatre in Belfast mourned his passing and praised his talents.
  • In January 2025, he won the Judges' Award at The Stage Awards for his adaptation of "The Tragedy of Richard III."
  • MND affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and is currently incurable.

Source Information