Fair City star Bryan Murray has officially announced his retirement from the long-running Irish soap, marking the end of an era for Carrigstown.
After two decades on screens as the beloved and often beleaguered Bob Charles, Bryan is hanging up his apron and stepping away from Fair City for good. His final episode will air on Thursday, 24 April 2025.
Bryan, who joined the show in 2005, quickly became a fan favourite thanks to his portrayal of Bob – a man whose big heart, messy love life and never-ending entrepreneurial spirit made him a cornerstone of the community.
From pulling pints in McCoy’s Pub to running The Hungry Pig restaurant, Bob was at the heart of Carrigstown life. Over the years, he was heavily involved in the show’s most emotional and socially-conscious storylines, including his shocking descent into homelessness.
Off-screen, Bryan found lasting love in his co-star Una Crawford O’Brien, who played his on-screen partner. Their real-life romance blossomed from a friendship formed on set, echoing their characters’ chemistry.
Executive Producer Brigie de Courcy paid tribute to Bryan’s extraordinary contribution to the show, saying: ‘Bryan has been a part of the Fair City family for 20 years. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of watching him navigate a wide range of emotions and storylines, always with a professionalism that made it look effortless. His immense talent, dedication, and passion for his craft have left an enduring legacy that will be remembered. While we will miss him on set, we are incredibly grateful for the many wonderful years we’ve shared with him. His contribution to Irish television is immeasurable, and we wish him all the best.’
In 2019, Bryan was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Despite the diagnosis, he continued to appear on Fair City, demonstrating extraordinary resilience and commitment. In 2022, he publicly shared his condition in a bid to raise awareness and support others living with dementia.