P.H. Moriarty, the beloved actor famous for his roles in hit films like Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and The Long Good Friday, has passed away at the age of 86.
The Deptford-born actor, known for portraying tough and gritty characters, died peacefully, with tributes pouring in from fans and colleagues alike.
Moriarty’s cause of death has yet to be disclosed, but his passing has left a significant mark on the entertainment world.
A Late-Blooming Star Who Rose to Fame in Crime Films
Moriarty’s career took an unusual path. Before entering the world of acting, he worked as a docker at Surrey Docks in Rotherhithe, South East London.
It was there that he caught the eye of a film crew, ultimately leading him into the acting world.
His breakout role came in the 1980 film The Long Good Friday, where he played the iconic character of Razors, a tough enforcer with a memorable reputation.
This role, along with his portrayal of ‘Hatchet’ Harry in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, cemented Moriarty’s place as a celebrated figure in British crime cinema.
The Rise of a Cult Favorite and Hollywood Success
Moriarty’s role in The Long Good Friday launched him into the spotlight, with American audiences taking notice soon after.
Following his standout performance, he landed a role in the blockbuster Jaws 3D.
His career continued to soar, and he soon became a regular face in British television and film.
Over the years, Moriarty appeared in several hit TV shows like The Bill, Doctors, and Judge John Deed, as well as the miniseries Frank Herbert’s Dune and Children of Dune.
His versatility as an actor kept him in high demand, with roles ranging from villainous gangsters to quirky side characters.
Tributes Pour in for the Actor’s Contributions and Legacy
Fans and co-stars have expressed their admiration and sorrow over the loss of Moriarty.
A family friend, Jimmy Tippett Jr., shared heartfelt memories of the actor, recounting how Moriarty remained a loyal friend to his father despite their busy lives.
Fans flooded social media with messages of gratitude, particularly for his role in The Long Good Friday, where his portrayal of Razors left an indelible mark on film history.
Many remembered him as a “proper bloke” with a strong sense of camaraderie, especially recalling his down-to-earth nature and connection to Millwall FC, a club he supported passionately.
A Final Tribute to His Iconic Villainous Roles
Moriarty’s portrayal of ‘Hatchet’ Harry in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels earned him further accolades, with movie fans consistently ranking him as one of the best villains in Guy Ritchie’s films.
His portrayal of a menacing, yet darkly charismatic gangster became one of the defining elements of the 1998 crime hit.
His final appearance on screen came in the 2021 gangster film Rise of the Footsoldier: Origins, where he reprised his tough-guy persona alongside Vinnie Jones, his co-star from Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.
P.H. Moriarty’s impact on British cinema and his larger-than-life screen presence will be remembered by fans and the film industry for many years to come.
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