Category Archives: Irish Television

Chris O’Dowd on THE DISH

Chris O'Dowd on THE DISH

Chris O'Dowd on THE DISH

Irish charm meets culinary conversation in the world of Chris O’Dowd, whose path from County Roscommon to Hollywood stardom reveals a man as complex as the characters he portrays. The Emmy-winning actor, who first captured audiences as Roy Trenneman in Channel 4’s beloved series THE IT CROWD, has since crafted a career that seamlessly blends his Irish roots with international acclaim. After studying politics at University College Dublin and honing his craft at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, O’Dowd’s Hollywood breakthrough came with his scene-stealing performance in BRIDESMAIDS, where his natural warmth and comedic timing endeared him to global audiences.

O’Dowd’s creative vision truly came to life when he created and starred in the semi-autobiographical series Moone Boy, drawing inspiration from his childhood in Boyle. The series not only won an Emmy but established O’Dowd as a multifaceted storyteller capable of transforming personal experience into universal narratives. Now, his latest venture, SMALL TOWN, BIG STORY, continues this tradition of authentic storytelling, featuring an impressive cast including Christina Hendricks and Paddy Considine.

Between sips of whisky and bites of Keogh’s crisps—a nod to his Irish heritage—O’Dowd recently shared stories about his creative process while Angela prepared sticky pulled pork complemented by a quick-pickled shredded salad. The meal, expertly paired with a Calmel & Joseph organic pinot noir by Waitrose specialists, provided the perfect backdrop for O’Dowd’s entertaining tales about his pet tortoise and reflections on his family’s time in Los Angeles. His conversation naturally flowed to the inspirations behind SMALL TOWN, BIG STORY, revealing how his cultural background continues to influence his work.

Throughout the evening, the discussion turned to the importance of involving children in cooking traditions, though with the gentle reminder that younger kitchen enthusiasts should always have adult supervision when using equipment like air fryers. This conversation highlighted not just O’Dowd’s connection to Irish food culture but his understanding of how culinary traditions shape family dynamics—themes that often resurface in his storytelling. As his career evolves, O’Dowd continues to bring the warmth and complexity of his Irish heritage to audiences worldwide, seasoning his work with the same authenticity that makes his on-screen presence so compelling.

Irish Television

Fiona Shaw on BAD SISTERS

Fiona Shaw on BAD SISTERS

Fiona Shaw on BAD SISTERS

In a candid conversation on THE LATE LATE SHOW, acclaimed actor Fiona Shaw offered rare insights into her collaborative process with some of television’s most innovative creators while reflecting on her connection to her Cork roots. Fresh from the Dublin premiere of PARK AVENUE at the Dublin International Film Festival, Shaw painted a vivid picture of working alongside Sharon Horgan on the hit Apple TV+ series BAD SISTERS.

Shaw, who portrays Angelica, an old acquaintance of Grace (played by Anne-Marie Duff) in the show’s second season, described Horgan as “a superwoman” whose creative process is as dynamic as it is effective. “What was really unusual about it is that Sharon turns up every morning with her laptop and she just types and fixes,” Shaw told host Patrick Kielty. “She’s probably writing ten other shows as well.” The actor revealed how scenes would continuously evolve through collaboration between herself, Horgan, and director Dearbhla Walsh, creating an environment where the written material served as just a starting point for further creative development.

The Cork native recalled Horgan’s energetic pitch for the show with amusement. “They asked me for coffee and I’d read one episode, and I said to Sharon: ‘What’s the rest of the story about?’ and she took off like a Harley-Davidson: ‘And then this happens, and then this happens’ and I didn’t know what she was saying half the time!” Despite the “garbled” explanation, Shaw was already hooked.

Her admiration extends to Phoebe Waller-Bridge, creator of FLEABAG and KILLING EVE, whom Shaw described as “the most astonishing talent” with “so many gifts” and “a very kind heart.” These collaborations have clearly shaped Shaw’s recent career renaissance, building upon her already impressive portfolio that includes beloved roles in the HARRY POTTER franchise and MY LEFT FOOT.

Despite her international success, Shaw maintains strong ties to her hometown of Cobh, where she frequently returns to visit her 99-year-old mother. “I’m there a lot because my mother is very old now,” she explained, adding that her busy career often made her feel “like a tourist” when visiting Ireland. “I was away, I was often in the theatre and therefore away or on tour so often. I mean, I was always back for Christmas, but I’m getting to know Cork and West Cork and if ever I can escape up west.”

Shaw even revealed how local influences shaped her performances, including basing her character in THREE MEN AND A BABY on her Cork headmistress who was “always rummaging down her chest.” She noted with amusement that “generations of schoolchildren at Scoil Mhuire knew I had based it on that particular woman,” calling it “quite a local performance—don’t sweat the big stuff, just do what you know.”

This interweaving of international stardom with deeply personal connections to home exemplifies Shaw’s approach to her craft—drawing from authentic experiences while collaborating with contemporary storytelling visionaries, continuing to captivate audiences across generations and genres.

Irish Television

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Farrell wins Outstanding Male Performance at SAG Awards

Farrell wins Outstanding Male Performance at SAG Awards

Farrell wins Outstanding Male Performance at SAG Awards

In a heartwarming and memorable moment at this year’s Screen Actors Guild Awards, Colin Farrell clinched his first-ever SAG award, though the victory came with an unexpected twist. The Irish actor, recognized for his transformative role in Max’s Batman spinoff THE PENGUIN, received his award for best actor in a limited series from Jamie Lee Curtis, star of THE LAST SHOWGIRL, who playfully called him out for a previous viral moment. “And the Actor goes to… the man who gave me COVID at the Golden Globes: Colin Farrell,” Curtis announced to a laughing audience. Farrell, ever the charmer, accepted the accusation with good humor, though he was quick to pass the blame to his THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN co-star Brendan Gleeson.

The acceptance speech that followed revealed the depth of emotion and gratitude that has marked Farrell’s remarkable career. Speaking with genuine wonder about his fellow actors, Farrell reflected on the ethereal nature of their craft: “It’s just unquantifiable; it’s playtime. You don’t get to fully grow up, you get to keep the dream of a child alive as you try and figure out what it is to be human.” The 48-year-old actor’s words resonated deeply with the audience as he acknowledged both the successes and failures that come with the artistic journey.

In a particularly touching moment, Farrell took time to recognize his family’s crucial role in his success. He gave special recognition to his sister Claudine, his partner of 22 years in the industry, emphasizing her role as a producer rather than merely his assistant. He also celebrated his sister Catherine, the family’s pioneer in acting, and his pajama-clad brother Eamon, who stayed up to watch the ceremony on Netflix. Most movingly, he praised his sons James and Henry, aged 21 and 15, for bringing unprecedented joy and meaning to his life.

Farrell’s winning performance in THE PENGUIN required an extraordinary physical transformation, one that profoundly impacted his sense of self. Reflecting on the experience at the HBO series premiere in September, he shared how the dramatic makeup and costumes altered his self-perception: “It’s not like I ever fully lost sense of myself, but it was a very powerful thing to know yourself a certain way for 45 years and to see a reflection.” This transformation proved to be more than skin-deep, offering him a unique creative freedom that he described as both hypnotic and powerful, allowing him to approach his character with a truly blank slate.

More Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell on SUGAR
Farrell wins Critics Choice Award
Farrell's Golden Globe glory
Farrell’s indie film round-up

Irish Television

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Chris O’Dowd on THE LATE LATE SHOW

Chris O'Dowd on THE LATE LATE SHOW

Chris O'Dowd on THE LATE LATE SHOW

In a delightful convergence of Irish and international talent, County Roscommon’s own Chris O’Dowd is set to grace RTÉ’s THE LATE LATE SHOW alongside an impressive lineup of guests, bringing with him a treasure trove of stories that perfectly capture his journey from small-town Ireland to global stardom. The Boyle native, known for his role in MOONE BOY, will be joined by Hollywood star Christina Hendricks to discuss their latest collaboration, SMALL TOWN, BIG STORY, a series that brings O’Dowd back to his roots in rural Ireland.

The timing of this appearance feels particularly poignant, as O’Dowd recently shared an extraordinary tale from his first-ever Late Late Show experience. Back in 1998, as a UCD student plucked from the campus bar to fill the audience, he received an unexpected gift from then-host Gay Byrne – ferry tickets to Cherbourg. What started as a simple “booze cruise” turned into a four-month French adventure for the former Roscommon minor goalkeeper, who found himself seduced by French bread and the excitement of the 1998 World Cup while his friends returned home.

This full-circle moment showcases O’Dowd’s enduring connection to his hometown of Boyle, where he and his wife Dawn O’Porter recently returned to open the town’s beloved Arts Festival. The show’s stellar lineup also includes Steve Coogan, O’Dowd’s MOONE BOY co-star, who will discuss bringing DR. STRANGELOVE to Dublin’s Bord Gáis Energy Theatre and reflect on his iconic Alan Partridge character, along with his recent acquisition of an Irish passport. Adding to the evening’s entertainment, comedian Katherine Ryan will share her own Irish heritage story and the romantic tale of marrying her high school sweetheart after a twenty-year intermission. The night will culminate with a performance by 90s icon Gabrielle, known for hits like “Dreams” and “Rise,” ahead of her anticipated 3Arena concert.

The gathering of these diverse talents on THE LATE LATE SHOW represents a beautiful blend of local charm and international appeal, proving that even as Irish talent conquers the global stage, the pull of home remains irresistible. For O’Dowd, it’s a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary journeys begin in the most ordinary places – be it a college bar in Dublin or a small town in Roscommon.

Irish Television

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BRIDGERTON S4 sneak peak

BRIDGERTON S4 sneak peak

BRIDGERTON S4 sneak peak

Netflix has set hearts aflutter with the first glimpse of BRIDGERTON‘s fourth season, treating fans to an intimate behind-the-scenes look at what promises to be another enchanting chapter in the beloved series. The newly released sneak peek, which dropped on Valentine’s Day 2025, offers tantalizing glimpses of the show’s next romantic adventure, centered around the free-spirited Benedict Bridgerton, portrayed by Luke Thompson. Taking its cues from Julia Quinn’s AN OFFER FROM A GENTLEMAN, the season weaves a spellbinding romance that Thompson describes as a “twist on Cinderella,” following Benedict’s unexpected encounter with a mysterious Lady in Silver at his mother’s masquerade ball.

The fresh footage reveals returning fan favorites, including Nicola Coughlan‘s Penelope Featherington, who appears in two pivotal scenes – one intimate moment with her husband Colin Bridgerton, and another alongside the formidable Queen Charlotte at the masquerade ball. Adding to the excitement, showrunner Jess Brownell confirmed at the BRIDGERTON: SEASON OF LOVE 2025 Fan Event that season two’s beloved couple, Kate and Anthony Bridgerton, will return, with Johnny Bailey and Simone Ashley reprising their roles, promising glimpses of their marital bliss and new journey into parenthood.

Perhaps most intriguingly, the season introduces newcomer Yerin Ha as Sophie Baek, who steps into the glittering world of the ton as Benedict’s love interest. The production, which began rolling cameras in September 2024, is set to conclude filming in April 2025, though eager fans will need to exercise patience – Netflix isn’t expected to premiere this latest installment until 2026. This continuation of the BRIDGERTON saga promises to maintain the series’ signature blend of romance, drama, and societal intrigue, while exploring new territories through Benedict’s artistic soul and his reluctance to follow his brothers into matrimonial bliss. With its stellar cast and creative team hard at work, including veteran stunt professional Mark Vanselow at the helm, and the addition of acclaimed actors like Academy Award winner Marisa Tomei, Ving Rhames, and Michael Chiklis, the fourth season appears poised to captivate audiences once again with its unique blend of period romance and modern sensibilities.

Irish Television

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Irish talent shines at IFTA 2025

Irish talent shines at IFTAs 2025

Irish talent shines at IFTAs 2025

The 2025 Irish Film and Television Awards transformed Dublin into a constellation of stars on Friday evening, with SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE emerging as the night’s biggest winner. The intimate drama secured both Best Film and Best Actor for Cillian Murphy, who delivered a memorable acceptance speech apologizing to his fellow nominees from hip-hop group Kneecap: “Sorry Kneecap. You had me outnumbered.”

The evening proved particularly triumphant for Saoirse Ronan, who demonstrated her versatility by claiming two major awards. She won Best Actress for her compelling performance in THE OUTRUN, where she portrayed a young woman grappling with alcoholism – a project she created alongside her husband Jack Lowden. “I got to make this film with the love of my life,” Ronan shared emotionally from the stage. She also secured Best Supporting Actress for her role in the World War II drama BLITZ, during which she graciously acknowledged the team from ATONEMENT, the film that launched her Oscar-nominated career.

The ceremony highlighted the growing international appeal of Irish cinema, with Colin Farrell winning Best Lead Actor in a TV Drama for his transformation in THE PENGUIN. The gritty drama SAY NOTHING garnered multiple honors, including Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Lola Petticrew’s powerful portrayal of Dolours Price. The series also earned Anthony Boyle the Rising Star award for his depiction of Brendan Hughes, while Tom Vaughan-Lawlor and Hazel Doupe secured supporting actor awards.

In a particularly poignant moment, director Rich Peppiatt accepted his Best Director award for KNEECAP with news that carried special weight: he had become an Irish citizen just hours before the ceremony. Holding up an Irish flag badge, he declared, “I became an Irish citizen earlier today, only about two hours ago, just in time.” The film itself, predominantly in Irish, represents a bold celebration of language and culture, with its creators insisting on authenticity in their storytelling.

BAD SISTERS continued its successful run with Sharon Horgan taking home the award for Script Writing. Horgan tantalized fans with hints about a potential third season, expressing interest in casting Sebastian Stan or Andrew Scott as the show’s next antagonist. The series’ acclaim underscores the growing global appetite for Irish storytelling.

Industry veteran Colm Meaney received the Lifetime Achievement Award, approaching the honor with characteristic humor: “It means a thing about yay size, very heavy. It’s a wonderful award, it’s very special, and to get it from my home town and from my peers too.”

The evening served as a powerful reminder of Ireland’s flourishing film industry, with Andrew Scott capturing the sentiment perfectly: “We have incredible crews here, and the standard of our work is going from strength to strength. I just hope that we continue making films that are authentically Irish and what it means to be Irish. There is a real international audience for not just the actors who are doing well at the moment, but all types of filmmakers. It’s a really incredibly exciting time.”

Indeed, as the credits rolled on another spectacular IFTA ceremony, it was clear that Irish cinema isn’t just finding its voice – it’s commanding the global stage with stories that resonate far beyond its shores.

More Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy: Oscar 2025 presenter
28 YEARS LATER begins filming
Murphy in BLOOD RUNS COAL
Murphy on SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE

Irish Film, Irish Television

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2025 IFTA preview

IFTA 2025 preview

IFTA 2025 preview

The glittering heart of Ireland’s entertainment industry is set to pulse through Dublin this Valentine’s Day as a constellation of stars descends upon the Royal Convention Centre for the prestigious Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards. Hosted by the charismatic Kevin McGahern, this year’s ceremony promises to be an extraordinary celebration of Irish creative talent, with veteran actor Colm Meaney taking center stage to receive the coveted IFTA Lifetime Achievement Award.

The guest list reads like a who’s who of Irish entertainment, featuring Oscar nominee Cillian Murphy, fresh from his role in SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE, alongside fellow luminaries Saoirse Ronan of THE OUTRUN and BLITZ, Andrew Scott of RIPLEY, and Ruth Negga, starring in PRESUMED INNOCENT. The ceremony will also welcome BRIDGERTON star Nicola Coughlan, BAD SISTERS creator Sharon Horgan, and the dynamic trio from KNEECAP: J.J. Ó Dochartaigh, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, and Naoise Ó Cairealláin.

The star power continues with appearances from Liam Cunningham of 3 BODY PROBLEM, Eva Birthistle from KATHLEEN IS HERE, and rising star Alisha Weir of ABIGAIL. Adding to the glamour are HOUSE OF THE DRAGON‘s Clinton Liberty, Chris O’Dowd showcasing his new series SMALL TOWN, BIG STORY, and OUTLANDER sensation Caitriona Balfe. SALTBURN and CONVERSATIONS WITH FRIENDS star Alison Oliver will join DEXTER: ORIGINAL SIN‘s Patrick Gibson among the distinguished attendees.

Meaney, the man of the hour, expressed genuine surprise at his selection for the Lifetime Achievement Award. “To say I was surprised when I got the news that IFTA wanted to give me this award would be an understatement,” he remarked with characteristic humility. “I was truly shocked. To be asked to join this long list of very illustrious previous recipients is a huge honour.”

For those unable to attend, TikTok star Eric Roberts will be bringing the red carpet glamour directly to fans through IFTA’s Official TikTok Account, with coverage beginning at 5pm. The entire ceremony will be broadcast on RTE One at 10.55pm on Saturday, February 15, allowing viewers nationwide to share in this celebration of Irish creative excellence.

The event, supported by Screen Ireland and Coimisiún na Meán, with key sponsors including RTE, Don Julio, IFTN, TikTok, Canon, and Sculpted by Aimee, stands as a testament to the flourishing Irish entertainment industry and its growing influence on the global stage.

Irish Film, Irish Television

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THE TOMMY TIERNAN SHOW returns with new episodes

THE TOMMY TIERNAN SHOW returns

THE TOMMY TIERNAN SHOW returns

THE TOMMY TIERNAN SHOW continues to captivate audiences with its unique format and intimate conversations, offering viewers a refreshing departure from traditional chat show interviews. The show’s distinctive approach – where the host meets his guests without any prior knowledge of their identity – has led to some remarkably authentic moments in recent episodes.

In a particularly engaging segment, fellow comedian Jimmy Carr brought his characteristic wit to the show, sharing candid insights into his life as a new parent. After his stand-up shows in England, Carr revealed, he often drives home, and in one touching moment, he described returning late only to spend an hour discussing Transformers with his young child through the baby monitor, still buzzing from his performance energy.

The show recently welcomed Hollywood actor Paul Giamatti, in what viewers described as a “gentle” conversation that went far deeper than typical promotional interviews. Social media lit up with observations about the uncanny similarities between host and guest, with one viewer noting, “I thought we were finally getting an interview between quiet Tommy Tiernan and loud Tommy Tiernan!” The interview stood in stark contrast to traditional chat show formats, with one viewer pointing out that while Giamatti might discuss his latest film on THE GRAHAM NORTON SHOW, here he opened up about his personal life in a more meaningful way.

The show’s ability to elicit powerful emotional responses was particularly evident in an episode featuring writer and actor Seamus O’Rourke. His moving reading from his book “Leaning on Gates,” exploring the complex relationship between fathers and sons, left viewers “bawling their eyes out.” O’Rourke’s honest reflection on never having hugged his late father resonated deeply with the audience, with many sharing their own experiences of similar parent-child dynamics.

The show’s diverse guest list has also included mixed media artist Aaron Sunderland Carey, whose socially engaged projects earned him praise as an “inspiring” and “incredible” young man, and Irish musician Doireann Ní Ghlacáin, known for her fiddle playing and TG4 presenting work. These episodes, alongside appearances by Emma Doran and Fern Brady, showcase the show’s commitment to featuring voices from various walks of life, from A-list celebrities to local artists and academics.

Through its unconventional format and Tiernan’s skillful interviewing style, the show continues to deliver what viewers have come to describe as “pure, raw and naturally funny” conversations that go beyond surface-level celebrity chat to explore the deeper aspects of human experience.

WATCH NOW ON RTE PLAYER.

Irish Television

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