Wilko Johnson, the British blues-rock band Dr. Feelgood guitarist and ‘Game Of Thrones’ actor, has died at 75. A statement was posted on his official social media pages on behalf of his family that stated the musician died on November 21 evening at his home in southeast England.
‘This is the announcement we never wanted to make, and we do so, on behalf of Wilko's family and the band, with a very heavy heart: Wilko Johnson has died. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Westcliff On Sea on Monday evening, 21st November 2022. He was 75,’ the post on Facebook read.
‘Thank you for respecting Wilko's family's privacy at this very sad time, and thank you all for having been such a tremendous support throughout Wilko's incredible life. RIP Wilko Johnson,’ the statement concluded.
Wilko Johnson was diagnosed with the last stage of pancreatic cancer in early 2013. He underwent major surgery and was declared cancer-free a year later.
Born in 1947 in Canvey Island, Essex, Wilko Johnson gained recognition with pub-rock, rhythm ‘n’ blues band Dr Feelgood. In 1980, he joined Ian Drury & The Blockheads before focusing on his Wilko Johnson Band.
Johnson had portrayed mute executioner Ilyn Payne in the hit fantasy drama ‘Game of Thrones’.