Irish actor Barry Keoghan spent most of his childhood in foster homes, losing his mother to addiction issues when he was just 12-years-old. He found his passion for acting after answering a casting notice for a short indie film in his local shop window.

Keoghan was so determined to succeed that he’s often made his own audition tapes to send to studios. Praised by directors for his natural talent, Keoghan has risen from starring in the Irish drama series ‘Love/Hate’ as a ‘cat killer’ in 2013, to the current hit ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’. His moving performance as the comical yet heart-breaking Dominic is wowing critics.

So can Barry Keoghan take home all the awards this year? Mark Coles speaks to his friends, colleagues and teachers about his rise from the streets of Summerhill in Dublin to success in Hollywood.

Credits

Ireland Unfiltered with Dion Fanning

In the Envelope: The Actor’s Podcast

The Banshees of Inisherin Director and writer: Martin McDonagh Searchlight Pictures

Between the Canals Director and writer: Mark O’Connor High Fliers Films

Dunkirk Director: Christopher Nolan Warner Bros.

Hairspray Director: Adam Shankman Warner Bros.

Presenter: Mark Coles Producers: Diane Richardson, Beth Ashmead-Latham and Georgia Coan Editor: Simon Watts Production Co-ordinator: Sabine Schereck Sound Engineer: Rod Farquhar