Brian Murphy was born on the Isle of Wight, England, to restaurateurs Gerald and Mabel Murphy, and was one of three siblings. From an early age, he demonstrated a keen interest in variety theatre and a knack for impersonating famous comedians, including Will Hay and Stan Laurel.
After serving in the Royal Air Force, Murphy attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) but dropped out after one year due to financial difficulties. He then joined Joan Littlewood's Theatre Workshop, where he befriended fellow aspiring actor Richard Briers and future co-star Yootha Joyce.
Murphy's early career was marked by appearances in various stage productions, including a 1956 production of George Bernard Shaw's play "Captain Brassbound's Conversion" and Littlewood's "Sparrows Can't Sing" and "Oh, What a Lovely War". He also appeared in the stage and film versions of "Sparrows Can't Sing" alongside Yootha Joyce.
On screen, Murphy initially worked as a journeyman supporting actor for many years, before breaking through with his role as George Roper in the ITV sitcom "Man About the House" (1973). The show's success spawned a sequel, "George and Mildred" (1980),which ran for five seasons.
Murphy's subsequent projects included the sitcoms "The Incredible Mr Tanner" (1981) and "L for Lester" (1982),as well as appearances in various other TV shows and films. He also had a long-running role in the BBC sitcom "Last of the Summer Wine" (1973).
In his later years, Murphy continued to work in television and theatre, including a stint as a member of the ensemble cast of the soap "Brookside" (1982). He also appeared in a number of one-off performances, including a TV movie and several episodes of "The Catherine Tate Show" (2004).
Brian Murphy was married to actress and crime writer Linda Regan since 1995, and died on February 2, 2025, at his home in Kent, England.
