Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Jamie Roberts

Stephen Clinch dies as tributes pour in for Irish actor who starred in Love/Hate

Popular Irish actor Stephen Clinch has died unexpectedly at the age of 52.

The star who was best known for his role as criminal Noely in hit Irish crime drama Love/Hate was found dead in Dublin on Tuesday and tributes quickly poured in from fellow actors, writers and his fans.

His character's long-running feud on-screen with drug dealer Fran, played by Peter Coonan, became one of the top storylines on the drama.

Clinch - who served time in real life for armed robbery - also starred as Bernard on crime series Darklands.

Among those paying tribute to Clinch was fellow Love/Hate star John Connors.

Stephen Clinch has died at the age of 52 (WWW.CONORCLINCH.COM)

Taking to Instagram, he wrote on his story: "One of the funniest and most decent people I've ever known. As loyal as a friend you could ever want. Love you Clinchy. Will miss you always. Rip

"My thoughts and prayers are with his family"

Cardboard Gangsters writer and Darklands director Mark O'Connor posted several comments on Twitter following the news, starting with: "You made mistakes but you came through them. An incredible actor, the only one to star in all my films and Darklands."

He followed it up by saying: "If we were a team Clinchy was the neck. RIP," before adding a snap from Between the Canals and writing: "A relaxing moment on the set of Between the Canals.

"Clinchy was eyeing up the cops who were parked across the street 24/7 watching us filming a movie! He looked after Damo on this set making him feel comfortable and he helped everyone make their performances more believable."

A fan commented on the post: "A legend in Irish Film and TV."

Another user commented on Twitter: Sad news to hear Mark, great times working with Clinchy… RIP Stephen Clinch," while a third wrote: "Aww he was nice gentleman. Rest in peace Clinchy," alongside crying face emojis.

Fellow Darklands star Robbie Breen also told the Sunday World: "He was a true character on and off the set, may he rest in peace."

Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@mirror.co.uk or call us direct 0207 29 33033.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.