Welcome to Onward Fame
Despite Ireland being quite the small island, plenty of famous faces have come out of our country, and some have even become global house hold names. Do you know any of these famous faces?
Introduction
Ireland has produced a remarkable array of famous individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, from literature and music to politics and acting. Even at our smaller size, our country have produced countless infamous celebrities that are renowned worldwide.
"When you live with the Devil you learn there's a God very quickly."
Sinéad O'Connor
Sinead O’Connor
Sinéad O'Connor was an Irish singer, songwriter, and activist known for her powerful, distinctive voice and bold, unapologetic approach to music and social issues. She gained international fame with her 1990 hit single "Nothing Compares 2 U," which showcased her emotive style and vocal range. O'Connor was also known for her outspokenness on political and social matters, including her criticism of the Catholic Church and her support for various causes, such as women's rights and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Throughout her career, she faced both acclaim and controversy, particularly due to her unconventional choices and willingness to challenge authority. Despite her struggles with mental health, O'Connor's impact on music and culture remains significant.
Cillian Murphy
Cillian Murphy is an Irish actor renowned for his versatile performances in both independent films and major blockbusters. He gained international recognition for his roles in films like 28 Days Later (2002), Inception (2010), and the Dark Knight trilogy, where he portrayed the iconic villain, Scarecrow. Known for his intense screen presence and distinctive blue eyes, Murphy has also earned critical acclaim for his work in films such as Breakfast on Pluto (2005) and The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006). In addition to his film career, Murphy has been a key member of the cast in the hit television series Peaky Blinders, where he plays the complex character of Tommy Shelby. His ability to inhabit a wide range of roles has made him one of Ireland’s most respected actors.
"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go."
Oscar Wilde
Bono
Bono, born Paul David Hewson, is an Irish singer, songwriter, and philanthropist best known as the lead vocalist and primary lyricist of the rock band U2. With U2, Bono became one of the most influential musicians in the world, with iconic albums like The Joshua Tree (1987) and Achtung Baby (1991) shaping the landscape of modern rock music. Beyond his musical career, Bono is deeply involved in social and political activism, particularly in areas like global poverty, human rights, and HIV/AIDS awareness. He co-founded organizations such as ONE and (RED), working to combat poverty and disease in Africa. Bono's combination of musical talent and advocacy has made him a prominent figure in both the music industry and global humanitarian efforts.
Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde was an Irish poet, playwright, and wit, known for his sharp humor, literary brilliance, and flamboyant personality. He gained fame in the late 19th century for works such as The Picture of Dorian Gray (1890) and plays like The Importance of Being Earnest (1895), which remain celebrated for their wit, satire, and exploration of social norms. Wilde's life was as dramatic as his writing, as he was famously imprisoned for "gross indecency" due to his homosexuality, which was considered a crime at the time. After his release, he spent his remaining years in France, where he wrote The Ballad of Reading Gaol (1898), reflecting on his experiences. Wilde's legacy endures through his literary works and his bold challenge to societal conventions.
"I have begun to think of life as a series of ripples widening out from an original center."
Seamus Heaney
Seamus Heaney
Seamus Heaney was an acclaimed Irish poet, playwright, and translator, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. Born in Northern Ireland in 1939, Heaney’s work often drew on his rural upbringing, exploring themes of identity, history, and conflict. His poetry is known for its rich language, vivid imagery, and deep emotional resonance. Heaney won numerous prestigious awards, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1995, for his mastery of the poetic craft and his ability to capture the human experience. Notable works include Death of a Naturalist (1966) and The Spirit Level (1996). Heaney’s influence on modern poetry remains profound, with his work continuing to resonate across generations.
Saoirse Ronan
Saoirse Ronan is an Irish-American actress known for her exceptional talent and versatility in both independent and mainstream films. She gained early recognition for her role in Atonement (2007), earning an Academy Award nomination at just 13 years old. Since then, Ronan has delivered standout performances in films like Lady Bird (2017), Brooklyn (2015), and Little Women (2019), each showcasing her range and depth as an actress. Renowned for her emotional depth and commitment to her roles, Ronan has become one of the most respected and sought-after actresses of her generation. Her work continues to garner critical acclaim, making her a prominent figure in contemporary cinema.