Actor, writer and director Darren Kent – who appeared in Game of Thrones and EastEnders – has died aged 36.

Appearing in Game Of Thrones in 2014, he played a grieving father – Goatherd – taking his dead child to see Daenerys Targaryen, Mother Of Dragons, played by Emilia Clarke.

He also had TV roles in EastEnders, TV mini-series Les Misérables and recent ITV drama Malpractice, as well as a brief appearance in the film Dungeons And Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, released earlier this year.

Kent’s death was announced by his agent, Carey Dodd Associates, which wrote on Facebook: “It is with deep sadness we have to tell you that our dear friend and client Darren Kent passed away peacefully on Friday.

“His parents and best friend by his side. Our thoughts and love are with his family in this difficult time.

“Darren was not only a talented actor, director and writer, he was truly one of the kindest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.

“It has been a privilege and pleasure to have been a part of his journey. RIP my friend.”

No cause of death was given.

Industry friends paid tribute online, including writer-director Jane Gull. Posting on X, formerly Twitter, she said: “What a privilege it was to be your friend and to work together on so many projects over the years.

“Life won’t be the same without you. I will miss you so much. RIP darling Darren Kent xxxx.”

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Makers of the film Love Without Walls wrote: “With heavy hearts, we share the heartbreaking news of our dear friend @darrenpaulkent’s passing.

“An acting luminary whose creativity inspired and left an indelible mark on and off-screen. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this devastating time.”

Screenwriter Ben Trebilcook wrote: “Love and thoughts to the friends and family of our talented, caring soul of a friend, Darren Kent, who sadly passed away on Friday.

“Darren, an Essex writer, actor and director, directed our award winning short You Know Me. A true character who was Always creating and forever upbeat and encouraging, Darren will be sorely missed.”

Gogglebox star Sandi Bogle, who appeared with the actor in a 2019 short film, wrote: “My heart is broken my long time amazing, wonderful great friend Darren Kent has passed away my condolences to his family May he rest in peace he is one of Gods (sic) beautiful Angels he will be truly missed.”

Born in Essex, with a strong London accent, Kent trained at Italia Conti drama school, graduating in 2007.

His first film role was in 2008 horror Mirrors, starring Kiefer Sutherland.

Kent won best actor at the Van D’or Awards in 2012 for his portrayal of the character Danny, in the short film Sunnyboy.

Away from acting, Kent also directed an episode of the 2021 BBC monologue series The Break, showcasing up-and-coming UK writers, and short film You Know Me.

His last performance was in the short film Birds Sorrow.