Actor Thomas Tom
Hopkins, who played corner shop owner Christy Phelan on the RTÉ soap opera Fair City for 16 years, has died. The Dublin native passed away on Monday surrounded by his family after appearing in 74 episodes.
Thomas Hopkins died peacefully on October 26. He was in the care of staff at the Carechoice Step Down facility in St James’s Hospital, according to funeral notices. He is survived by his wife, Tina, and his four sons—Anthony, John, Wayne, and Lee—as well as his extended family, grandchildren, and friends.
Hopkins Transitions From Civil Service to Stage
Hopkins worked in the civil service before returning to college as a mature student. He studied drama at Trinity College Dublin as detailed by The Journal.
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
Music also shaped his early creative life. He sang in a band called The Utopians during the 1970s.
One admirer hired his band for a wedding in 1974. The fan noted that he did Elvis justice and channeled Dr Hook when singing Sylvia’s Mother.
Christy Phelan Anchors Carrigstown for 16 Years
Hopkins joined Fair City in 1998 as Christy Phelan, the corner shop owner of the fictional Dublin suburb Carrigstown. He appeared in 74 episodes over more than a decade and a half. His character remained a fixture of the show’s dramatic arcs until 2014.
Viewers followed Christy through turbulent personal and domestic storylines. He had a relationship with local publican Carol Foley. He separated from his wife Renee. He also faced various health struggles.
These plots culminated in his character being written out via a fatal heart attack in 2014.
Tom Hopkins, who played Fair City's Christy Phelan, has died https://t.co/n25ObLkHIg @faircityfans @DeirdreMon5 @HildaFay18 @SineadKeenan @denisemcactress RIP Tom Hopkins. He also was in Custers Last Stand Up too.
Colleagues Honor Actor Before Ballyfermot Service
Fans and colleagues shared recollections of his warmth, comedic timing, and distinct screen presence. Executive producer Brigie de Courcey led tributes from the production team to honor the actor’s dedication to Carrigstown.
Thomas will be reposing at Staffords Funeral Home in Ballyfermot on Thursday, November 5, from 12 pm to 2 pm. A funeral service and celebration of his life will follow at the same location.
The family has requested that donations be made to the Alzheimer Society of Ireland in his memory in lieu of flowers.