Game of Thrones star and Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson no more, dies aged 75

Wilko Johnson, a Game of Thrones star and Dr Feelgood musician, passed away at the age of 75 after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. A statement posted to his social media accounts on Monday (November 21) announced that the performer who helped to define the “British punk movement” passed away at home.

The tweet stated- “This is the statement we never wanted to make, and we do it with a heavy heart: Wilko Johnson has died”. “On Monday, November 21, he died at home” Thank you for respecting the family's privacy at this difficult time. RIP Wilko Johnson”.

Johnson was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2013 and given 10 months to live after refusing chemotherapy. Despite this, he overcame the odds and declared himself cancer-free two years later after doctors removed a 3 kg tumour in an 11-hour surgery.


The singer stated once that “The year when I thought my life was coming to an end was one of the best years of my life”.

Johnson, who resides in his native country of Essex, was devastated in 2004 when his wife Irene died of cancer. Simon, the couple's son, survives them.

Johnson was famous for his unique guitar-playing technique, which had a key influence on the early punk bands of the 1970s. Before forming his band, the “Wilko Johnson Band”, the guitarist was a member of ‘Ian Drury’ and the ‘Blockheads’. He also dabbled in acting, making his on-screen debut in 2011 as Ser Ilyn Payne in “Game of Thrones”.

FAQ

1-What was Wilko Johnson's role in Game of Thrones?

Johnson made his acting debut as mute executioner Ser Ilyn Payne in both the first and second seasons of HBO's fantasy series Game of Thrones.

2- Why did Wilko Johnson Leave Game of Thrones?

Due to Johnson's worsening health, HBO was compelled to phase out the role. The artist disclosed in 2013 that he had been diagnosed with late-stage pancreatic cancer, and his last performance in the series was in season two, episode nine, 'Blackwater.'