Even with a cast so used to onscreen deaths, a co-star who passes away off screen is still certainly a shock.

Veteran actor JJ Murphy passed away Friday, four days into shooting his scenes for the fifth season of "The Game of Thrones". He was 86 years old.

The Irish thespian took on the role of Ser Denys Mallister, the most senior member of the Night's Watch.

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Although the actor was set to shoot more scenes, "Game of Thrones" executive producers D.B. Weiss and David Benioff stated that they are not planning to look for another actor to take over Murphy's role. According to Weiss and Benioff, Murphy was the best person for the role and no one could possibly take his place. 

"He was a lovely man, and the best Denys Mallister we could have hoped for. And now his watch is ended," the two shared.

According to Murphy's manager, Phllip Young, the actor was excited to have been chosen to take part in one of the biggest shows today, especially at his age and "at this stage in his career".

The classically trained actor, a native of Belfast, was a member of the Ulster Group Theatre and had worked alongside actors such as Liam Neeson and "Game of Thrones" co-star Ciaran Hinds at Belfast's Lyric Theatre.

Recently, Murphy finished shooting in Northern Ireland for the upcoming horror flick "Dracula Untold". The actor played an elder villager in the said film which is scheduled to premiere in theaters this October.

Aside from his role in "Dracula Untold" and short-lived stint with "Game of Thrones", Murphy also starred in movies such as "Angela's Ashes" and "Cal".

Young shared nothing but praise for the actor, saying, ""I have never encountered a man with more spirit, passion and love for his craft."

Murphy is survived by his wife, Mary, and children.

TagsJJ Murphy, Dead, Season 5, Game of Thrones