Thomas "Tom" Hopkins, the actor who played Christy Phelan on the soap opera Fair City, has died. He passed away on Monday while in the care of staff at the Carechoice Step Down Facility and St James’s Hospital, according to his funeral notice. He was surrounded by his family at the time of his death.
Sixteen Years in Carrigstown
Hopkins portrayed the owner of the Carrigstown corner shop for 16 years, appearing in 74 episodes of Fair City between 1998 and 2014. His character’s tenure on the show concluded after a heart attack. During his time on the series, Hopkins was central to several storylines, including the character’s trysts with local publican Carol Foley, his separation from his wife, Renee, and various health struggles.
Actor Thomas 'Tom' Hopkins, who played Fair City's Christy Phelan, has died.The Dubliner played the role of the Carrigstown corner shop's owner in 74 episodes of the show from 1998 to 2014 https://t.co/k5SfSlkpJK
Transition to Acting
Before joining the cast of Fair City, Hopkins worked in the civil service. He left a role in the civil service to return to college as a mature student to study drama at Trinity College Dublin. His entry into professional acting began unexpectedly during his studies.
In a previous interview, Hopkins recalled, "It was before my graduation. Prior to his acting career, Hopkins was also in a band labelled The Utopians in the 1970s.”
Family and Memorial Arrangements
Hopkins is survived by his wife, Tina, and his four sons: Anthony, John, Wayne, and Lee. He is also survived by his grandchildren and extended family members. It is asked that any donations be made to Alzheimer Society of Ireland in his memory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were some of the most notable storylines for Christy Phelan?
Phelan’s major arcs across his sixteen-year run featured his affairs with neighborhood publican Carol Foley, his split from spouse Renee, and his battle with medical issues.
What did Tom Hopkins do before his acting career?
Before that, in the 1970s, he was in a band labelled The Utopians, and before landing on the soap opera he left a role in the civil service.
How did Tom Hopkins secure his role on Fair City?
After abandoning his civil service job to pursue a mature student drama degree at Trinity College Dublin, Hopkins attended an open supermarket commercial audition following a tip from professional actors, prompting the contemporary Fair City producer to reach out and invite him to try out.
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