Line of Duty actor Brian McCardie's cause of death confirmed as family share statement

Brian McCardie as Tommy Hunter in Line of Duty.
Brian McCardie as Tommy Hunter in Line of Duty. -Credit:BBC


The cause of death for Brian McCardie has been revealed following the Scottish actor's sudden passing last month.

Heartfelt tributes were paid to the Glasgow-born Line of Duty star when his death was announced in late April.

The 59-year-old actor's sister has now shared a statement on behalf of Brian's family, along with funeral details.

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Sarah McCardie, also an actor, confirmed that Brian - who also appeared in global hit Outlander - passed away after suffering a tear in a major artery to his heart, reports the Daily Record.

She wrote: "The McCardie family would like to thank everyone for their overwhelming support regarding the sudden passing of Brian James McCardie - beloved son, brother, uncle and friend.

"Brian died due to an aortic dissection, causing short pain and a sudden death.

"There will be a funeral mass held on Thursday 23rd May at 1130am at St Mary's Church, 70 Bannatyne Street, Lanark. We then move on at 1330pm to Holytown Crematorium, Memorial Way, Holytown, Motherwell ML1 5RU where we will celebrate Brian's life before he takes his final bow.

"There will be links available to both the mass and the cremation service for those who cannot attend in person - we will feel your support from afar.

"With love and thanks, the McCardie family - Eddie, Moira, Martin, Ed, Liz and Sarah. Xxx".

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Sarah had confirmed the unfortunate news of Brian's sudden demise last month on Instagram with a touching message: "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. 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."

Famed for his role as underworld boss John Thomas 'Tommy' Hunter in the police drama Line Of Duty alongside fellow Scot Martin Compston, Brian McCardie was a household name.

He also made waves with his portrayal of Sir Marcus MacRannoch in the time-travel drama Outlander, and recently, he had joined the cast of prequel Blood Of My Blood, playing the role of the chief of Clan Grant.