'Game of Thrones' Actor Diagnosed With Terminal Cancer

Wilko Johnson, who is best known for playing Ilyn Payne on “Game of Thrones,” has announced that he has terminal pancreatic cancer.

As Ilyn, Johnson had his tongue ripped out with hot pinchers on the popular HBO series for claiming Tywin Lannister was more powerful than the King Aerys, and went on to become a mute executioner.

His manager announced:

"I am very sad to announce that Wilko has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer of the pancreas. He has chosen not to receive any chemotherapy. He is currently in good spirits, is not yet suffering any physical effects and can expect to enjoy at least another few months of reasonable health and activity.

"Wilko wishes to offer his sincere thanks for all the support he has had over his long career, from those who have worked with him to, above all, those devoted fans and admirers who have attended his live gigs, bought his recordings and generally made his life such an extraordinarily full and eventful experience. Thank you."

In the 1970’s, Johnson was also a guitarist and songwriter in the popular English blues group, Dr. Feelgood.

His manager, Roger Hoy, adds that Johnson plans to work on his music and give a series of farewell performances within the next few months.

"He has just set off on a trip to Japan; on his return we plan to complete a new CD, make a short tour of France, then give a series of farewell gigs in the UK. There is also a live DVD in the pipeline, filmed on the last UK tour,” Hoy says.

Such sad news.