Famous Irish Directors

Brendan Gleeson is a highly acclaimed Irish actor and director known for his versatile performances in both supporting and leading roles. He has received numerous awards and nominations for his work in film and television, including an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Winston Churchill. With a diverse range of roles in notable projects such as Braveheart, In Bruges, and The General, Gleeson has established himself as a talented and respected figure in the entertainment industry, showcasing his exceptional acting skills and versatility across various genres and platforms.

Patrick McGoohan was a versatile American and Irish actor, director, screenwriter, and producer in film, television, and theatre. He gained fame for his role as secret agent John Drake in the TV series Danger Man and as Number Six in The Prisoner. McGoohan had a long association with Columbo, writing, directing, producing, and appearing in episodes. His notable film roles include Ice Station Zebra, Mary, Queen of Scots, Escape from Alcatraz, Scanners, Braveheart, A Time to Kill, and Treasure Planet. A highly acclaimed actor, McGoohan received numerous awards for his work.

Stuart Townsend is an Irish actor known for his diverse roles in film and television. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Lestat de Lioncourt in "Queen of the Damned" and Dorian Gray in "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen." In addition to his acting career, Townsend has also showcased his talents behind the camera by directing the film "Battle in Seattle" in 2007. With a range of roles that demonstrate his versatility and skill, Stuart Townsend continues to make an impact in the entertainment industry.

Brendan O'Carroll is a versatile Irish entertainer known for his work as an actor, comedian, director, producer, and writer. His most iconic role is portraying the character of Agnes Brown, a foul-mouthed matriarch, in the popular sitcom Mrs. Brown's Boys. O'Carroll has achieved significant recognition for his contributions to Irish television, including receiving the Irish Film and Television Academy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015. With his talent and dedication, he has made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, particularly in the realm of comedy.

Adrian Dunbar is an accomplished Irish actor, director, and singer recognized for his work in television and theatre. He co-wrote and starred in the acclaimed film Hear My Song, which garnered a BAFTA nomination for Best Original Screenplay. He is widely known for his role as Superintendent Ted Hastings in the popular BBC series Line of Duty. Dunbar has showcased his versatility in various roles such as Alan Cox in The Jump, Martin Summers in Ashes to Ashes, and Father Flaherty in Broken. Additionally, he took on the lead role of DI Ridley in the 2022 crime series Ridley, where he also served as an associate producer.

Conor Woodman is an Irish author and broadcaster known for hosting popular television shows like Scam City and Around the World in 80 Trades. With expertise in uncovering scams and exploring diverse global markets, Woodman's professional life revolves around shedding light on the darker sides of travel and trade. Through his engaging storytelling and investigative journalism, he educates and entertains audiences about the intricacies of different cultures and economies, making him a respected figure in the world of travel shows and documentaries.

William Desmond Taylor was a prominent film director and actor in Hollywood during the 1910s and early 1920s. He directed fifty-nine silent films and acted in twenty-seven during his career. Taylor was well-regarded in the Hollywood motion picture colony for his contributions to the film industry. However, his professional life was overshadowed by his mysterious murder in 1922, which sparked sensationalized and fabricated news reports. Despite ongoing investigations, his murder remains an unsolved cold case in Hollywood history.

Neil Patrick Jordan is an accomplished Irish filmmaker, screenwriter, novelist, and short-story writer. Throughout his career, he has received numerous prestigious awards, including an Academy Award, two BAFTA Awards, a Golden Lion, and a Silver Bear. Jordan is known for his exceptional work in writing and directing acclaimed dramas such as Mona Lisa, The Crying Game, Michael Collins, The Butcher Boy, and The End of the Affair. He has also made a mark in television, creating series like The Borgias and Riviera. Additionally, Jordan is a celebrated author, with his novel Night in Tunisia winning the Guardian Fiction Prize.

Stephen McKinley Henderson is an accomplished American actor known for his extensive work on stage, film, and television. He received critical acclaim for his performances in the plays of August Wilson, earning nominations for Tony Awards and other prestigious accolades. With a career spanning several decades, Henderson has showcased his talent in a variety of roles, from character acting in theater productions like "Fences" and "A Raisin in the Sun" to appearances in notable films such as "Lincoln" and "Dune." His television credits include roles in popular series such as "Law & Order" and "The Blacklist."

Lisa Dwan is a versatile Irish actress, director, and writer with a notable career in theatre, particularly acclaimed for her performances in Samuel Beckett adaptations. Her diverse acting credits include roles in various television series such as Mystic Knights of Tir Na Nog, Fair City, and Rock Rivals. Dwan's talent has also shone on streaming platforms like Netflix, where she starred in the series Top Boy. With a range of roles across different mediums, Dwan continues to captivate audiences with her skill and versatility in the entertainment industry.

John Carney is a versatile Irish professional in the film industry, known for his work as a director, producer, screenwriter, and lyricist. He specializes in creating musical drama films and has gained recognition for his projects such as Once, Begin Again, and Sing Street. Carney has also made significant contributions to television as the co-creator of the Irish TV drama series Bachelors Walk. Additionally, he has showcased his talent as the showrunner and executive producer of Modern Love on Amazon Prime Video.

Richard St John Francis Harris was an Irish actor and singer who rose to prominence as an icon of the British New Wave. He received numerous accolades including the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor and a Grammy Award. Harris was known for his performances in acclaimed films such as This Sporting Life, The Field, A Man Called Horse, Unforgiven, Gladiator, and the Harry Potter series. He also achieved success as a singer with hits like "MacArthur Park" and received a Grammy nomination for his vocals.

Domhnall Gleeson is an accomplished Irish actor and screenwriter who rose to prominence with a diverse range of performances across film, television, and theater. Known for his versatile acting skills, he has garnered critical acclaim for roles in various acclaimed productions, including Harry Potter films, Ex Machina, Brooklyn, The Revenant, and the Star Wars sequel trilogy. His talent has been recognized with prestigious awards, such as Tony Award nominations and IFTA Awards. Gleeson continues to impress audiences with his compelling performances in both mainstream and independent projects.

Kevin McClory was an Irish screenwriter, film producer, and film director known for producing the James Bond film Thunderball. He gained fame through his legal disputes with Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond. McClory's professional life was marked by his significant contributions to the film industry, particularly his involvement in the production of iconic movies. His work on Thunderball solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the world of cinema, leaving a lasting impact on the James Bond franchise.

Daragh Gerard Marion O'Malley is a versatile Irish actor, director, and producer renowned for his impactful performances on both screen and stage. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Patrick Harper in the acclaimed series Sharpe alongside Sean Bean. O'Malley's extensive career includes appearances in various films, television shows, and stage productions in both the UK and the US, showcasing his exceptional talent and versatility as an actor.

Hugh O'Conor is a versatile professional active in the fields of acting, writing, directing, and photography. He has gained recognition for his work in the film industry, earning a spot on The Irish Times list of Ireland's greatest film actors in 2020. With a diverse skill set, he has showcased his talent across various mediums, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the Irish entertainment scene. Through his contributions as an actor, writer, director, and photographer, Hugh O'Conor continues to make a significant impact in the industry.

Vincent Gerard Dowling was a prominent Irish actor and director known for his significant contributions to the performing arts industry. With a career spanning several decades, Dowling established himself as a versatile and talented artist, captivating audiences with his performances on stage and screen. He was highly respected for his directorial skills, bringing a unique vision and creativity to his productions. Dowling's work showcased his passion for storytelling and his dedication to the craft of acting, leaving a lasting impact on the theatrical world.

Lenny Abrahamson is an acclaimed Irish film and television director known for his work on independent films such as Adam & Paul, Garage, What Richard Did, Frank, and Room, which have earned him numerous Irish Film and Television Awards. He gained international acclaim for directing Room, which received multiple Academy Award nominations. Abrahamson also worked on the successful television series Normal People, earning a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series. His diverse body of work showcases his talent and versatility as a director.

Simon Delaney is a versatile Irish actor, director, and television presenter known for his work in a variety of films and television series. He has garnered recognition for his roles in popular productions such as RTÉ's comedy-drama Bachelors Walk and CBS' legal drama The Good Wife. Delaney has showcased his talent in films like Zonad, Delivery Man, and The Conjuring 2. With a strong presence in both the television and film industries, he continues to captivate audiences with his performances and contributions behind the camera.

Olwen Fouéré is an accomplished Irish actress, writer, and director known for her work in theater, film, and visual arts. She has made significant contributions to the Irish entertainment industry and has been recognized for her talent and skill. In 2020, she was ranked as one of Ireland's greatest film actors by The Irish Times, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the world of acting. Fouéré's professional journey has been marked by a diverse portfolio of performances and projects that showcase her versatility and creativity.

Dearbhla Walsh is an accomplished Irish film and television director known for her work on a variety of drama series in Ireland and the United Kingdom. She has directed episodes for popular shows such as EastEnders, Shameless, and The Tudors, earning recognition including an Emmy Award and multiple Irish Film and Television Awards. Walsh has also worked on diverse projects ranging from children's programming to adult dramas, showcasing her versatility and talent behind the camera. She made history as the first woman to direct an episode of Fargo, further solidifying her reputation as a skilled and pioneering director.

Conor McPherson is an accomplished Irish playwright, screenwriter, and director for both stage and film. He has made significant contributions to world theatre, earning him an honorary doctorate of literature from University College Dublin in June 2013. McPherson's work is highly regarded in the industry, showcasing his talent for storytelling and his ability to captivate audiences with compelling narratives. His achievements highlight his dedication to the craft and his impact on the theatrical and cinematic landscapes.

Roy William Neill was an accomplished American film director recognized for his work on the Sherlock Holmes film series featuring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce. Neill played a crucial role in producing and directing these iconic films, which were released by Universal Pictures between 1943 and 1946. His contributions to the Sherlock Holmes franchise solidified his reputation as a talented filmmaker with a keen eye for bringing classic detective stories to life on the big screen.

Andrew Connolly is a versatile Irish stage and screen actor and director known for his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. With a career spanning several decades, he has delivered compelling performances across various mediums, captivating audiences with his nuanced portrayals and strong screen presence. As a director, he has demonstrated a keen eye for storytelling and a deep understanding of the creative process, earning recognition for his innovative approach to bringing scripts to life on stage and screen.

Michael J. Dolan was a distinguished Irish actor known for his roles in various productions such as Scrooge (1951) and Captain Horatio Hornblower (1951). He had a long and successful career with the Abbey Theatre, where he appeared in numerous plays by Irish playwright Teresa Deevy. Dolan also took on various roles within the Abbey Theatre, including stage manager, general manager, and director. His contributions to the theatre world can be seen through his extensive work and involvement with the Abbey Theatre Archives. Dolan passed away in Dublin at the age of 70.

Lumsden Hare was a versatile figure in the entertainment industry, excelling as both an actor and a director. With a career spanning film and theatre, he showcased his talent on both stage and screen. Known for his compelling performances, he captivated audiences with his portrayals of characters in various productions. In addition to his acting prowess, Hare also made a mark as a skilled director and producer, contributing to the success of numerous theatrical endeavors. His professional contributions left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.

Steven Barron is a highly accomplished Irish-British filmmaker and music video director known for directing iconic music videos for artists such as Michael Jackson, Bryan Adams, Dire Straits, Eddy Grant, The Jam, The Human League, Rod Stewart, Tears for Fears, Toto, and A-ha. His work on videos like "Take On Me" and "Billie Jean" has earned him widespread recognition, with both videos amassing over 1 billion views on YouTube. Barron has also ventured into film directing, with credits including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Coneheads, and The Adventures of Pinocchio.

Greg Tiernan is an accomplished animator, director, and voice artist in the animation industry. He co-founded Nitrogen Studios Canada, Inc. in 2003, where he revolutionized the Thomas & Friends series by introducing CGI animation. Prior to this, he collaborated with esteemed filmmakers such as Don Bluth, Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Klasky Csupo, Inc. Tiernan's feature film debut was with the R-rated animated film Sausage Party in 2016, where he co-directed the production of a story created by Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, and Jonah Hill. He currently works with Cinesite after Nitrogen Studios was acquired by them.

Herbert Brenon was an Irish-born U.S. film director, actor, and screenwriter known for his work during the silent film era through 1940. He was considered a pioneering "auteur" filmmaker, overseeing all creative and technical aspects of his films. Brenon's artistic output was highly regarded, comparable to that of D. W. Griffith. He gained celebrity status for his innovative cinematic techniques, with notable films including Neptune's Daughter, Peter Pan, A Kiss for Cinderella, and the original Beau Geste adaptation.

Jimmy Smallhorne is an Irish filmmaker known for writing, directing, and acting in his debut feature film "2by4." The drama, which explores the life of a closeted gay construction worker in New York City, received critical acclaim and was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the 1998 Sundance Film Festival. Smallhorne's talent as a filmmaker was further recognized when he won the Festival's Cinematography award for the camera work in the film. Throughout his career, Smallhorne has worked on a variety of projects, including the crime thriller "When the Sky Falls" and the comedy screenplay "Pushers Needed," which featured a star-studded cast. His contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented filmmaker.

Terry McMahon is a multi-talented Irish professional known for his work as a director, producer, writer, actor, and acting coach. He gained recognition for his roles in popular films like Batman Begins and his significant contributions to the award-winning film Patrick's Day, where he served as producer, director, and writer. McMahon's outstanding work in the film industry has earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious Irish Film and Television Awards in 2015. His versatile skills and dedication to storytelling have solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Mary Frances Thérèse Raftery was an Irish investigative journalist, filmmaker, and writer known for her impactful work in exposing issues of abuse and persecution. Starting her career in the 1970s with In Dublin magazine, she later joined Magill Magazine and then Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ) in 1984. Her groundbreaking documentary series States of Fear shed light on the Irish childcare system's dark past, leading to the establishment of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse. Raftery's work continued with programmes like "Cardinal Secrets," prompting further investigations into clerical abuse. Her dedication to investigative journalism earned her recognition and nominations for prestigious awards.

Tony Lundon is a multi-talented professional with a diverse career in the entertainment industry. He gained fame as a member of the popular music group Liberty X from 2001 to 2007. Following his music career, Lundon transitioned into producing and directing, founding his own film and TV production company, The Cell Productions, in 2010. With a focus on behind-the-scenes work, Lundon has established himself as a skilled cinematographer, director, and producer in the industry.

Charles Davis was a renowned Irish character actor, writer, and director known for his versatile talents in the entertainment industry. Throughout his successful career, he captivated audiences with his exceptional performances on screen and stage. As a writer, he showcased a unique storytelling ability that resonated with many. Additionally, his directorial skills brought forth engaging and memorable productions. With a rich professional portfolio, Charles Davis left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment, solidifying his legacy as a multifaceted and talented artist.

Douglas Gerrard was a prominent Irish-American actor and film director known for his work during the silent and early sound era. With over 110 film appearances spanning from 1913 to 1949, he showcased his talent on screen. Additionally, Gerrard directed 23 films between 1916 and 1920, demonstrating his skills behind the camera as well. His contributions to the film industry were particularly notable during his time as a leading man in Kalem films, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished professional.

Nora Twomey is a talented Irish animator, director, screenwriter, producer, and voice actress. She co-founded Cartoon Saloon, an animation studio known for its unique and captivating productions. Twomey's notable works include co-directing The Secret of Kells and directing The Breadwinner, both of which received critical acclaim and Academy Award nominations for Best Animated Feature. Her creative vision and dedication to storytelling have solidified her reputation as a prominent figure in the animation industry, earning her international recognition and numerous accolades.

Darach Mac Con Iomaire is an accomplished Irish actor, writer, and director who has made significant contributions to the Irish language entertainment industry. He has written and directed episodes for various TV series, showcasing his talent behind the camera. Mac Con Iomaire's acting credits include roles in short films and TV shows, highlighting his versatility as a performer. His tenure as the former artistic director of An Taibhdhearc and recognition with the Walter Macken Memorial Award underscore his dedication and success in the Irish language theatre scene.

Aisling Walsh is a renowned Irish screenwriter and director whose work has garnered international acclaim. She has achieved great success with her films being showcased at prestigious festivals worldwide. Notable awards in her career include a BAFTA TV Award for Room at the Top (2012), an Irish Film and Television Award, and a Canadian Screen Award for her exceptional direction of Maudie (2016). Walsh is recognized for her distinctive style, characterized by candid and insightful portrayals of Catholic Irish society.

Shelah Geraldine Richards was a multi-talented figure in the Irish entertainment industry. Throughout her career, she excelled as an actress, manager, director, and producer. Her versatility and skill set allowed her to make significant contributions to various aspects of the performing arts. Known for her dedication and passion for the craft, Shelah Richards left a lasting impact on the theater scene with her work both on and off the stage. Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists and professionals in the industry.

Matt Moore was an Irish-born American actor and director with a prolific career spanning from 1912 to 1958. Over this period, he appeared in at least 221 motion pictures, showcasing his talent and versatility on screen. Known for his dedication and skill, Moore made a significant impact on the film industry with his contributions both in front of and behind the camera. His work ethic and passion for storytelling solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the world of cinema.

Éamon de Buitléar was a prominent figure in the Irish entertainment industry, known for his work as a writer, musician, and filmmaker. He held the position of managing director at Éamon de Buitléar Ltd., a company recognized for its expertise in wildlife filming and producing television documentaries. Through his professional endeavors, he made significant contributions to the field of wildlife conservation and education, leaving a lasting impact on the world of film and television.

Ria Mooney was a distinguished Irish stage and screen actress known for her significant contributions to the theatrical world. She served as the artistic director of the Abbey Theatre from 1948 to 1963, making history as the first female producer at the renowned institution. Mooney also held the position of director at the Gaiety School of Acting, where she played a crucial role in shaping the next generation of performers. Her career exemplified a deep commitment to the arts and a dedication to promoting excellence in acting and theatrical production.

Barry McEvoy is a versatile Northern Irish film actor and writer with a diverse career spanning both stage and screen. He gained recognition for his role in An Everlasting Piece (2000) and has appeared in various films, including Gloria (1999), Veronica Guerin (2003), Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006), and Five Minutes of Heaven (2009). McEvoy drew inspiration from his father's experiences in Belfast for his screenplay. Additionally, he has a background in Off Broadway plays and was the lead singer of the punk band Phlegm in the 1980s. Currently, he is actively involved in screenwriting and occasionally performs in plays in Ireland and the U.S.