‘Commitments’ actor passes away

Johnny Murphy, 72, the actor best known for his role as trumpet player Joey ‘The Lips’ Fagan in The Commitments, has died. In a statement, Mr Murphy’s family said he died of respiratory failure in the early hours of yesterday morning after a short illness.

His career spanned over 50 years, beginning at the now closed Focus Theatre on Pembroke Place, Dublin, and leading to appearances at the Abbey and Gate.

“He played Gogo in the world famous Gate production of Beckett’s Waiting for Godot but was probably more famous for his portrayal of trumpet player Joey the Lips, the statement said.