The world has recognized a number of well-known Irish figures who have achieved greatness through their contributions. Whether it be actors, presidents, political leaders, or athletes, the Emerald Isle has earned its reputable imprint on multiple aspects of the international stage.
Famous Irish individuals have always been renowned for their excellence, and many of these remarkable figures are remembered even today. Through the years, they have become iconic symbols of greatness, an exemplification to the world of the highest standards that can be achieved. Their legacies remain strong and continue to influence society in meaningful ways. From deceased people to those still alive today, here is a list of unforgettable Irish personalities who have made a permanent mark on society.
1. Bono – global rockstar
Bono is an internationally-renowned singer who rose to fame as the lead singer of U2. Born in Dublin in 1962, he joined the band as a teenager and went on to achieve global success with their sixth album “The Joshua Tree”. In addition to his music career, Bono has used his celebrity status for philanthropic causes such as helping those facing poverty and AIDS-related issues.
2. Conor McGregor – controversial fighter
Without a doubt, Conor McGregor has undoubtedly achieved considerable fame and notoriety around the globe, despite being one of the most contentious personalities on our list. Irrespective of whether you admire him or find him to be disagreeable, it is impossible to deny his influence within the public domain. Conor McGregor, who was born on the fourteenth of July in 1988 in Dublin, is widely regarded as one of the most renowned and successful fighters in professional mixed martial arts. His meteoric rise to fame has been awe-inspiring and his incredible skill set has established him as a dominant figure within the sport.
3. Liam Neeson – acting sensation
Liam Neeson, a celebrated Irish actor who was born on the seventh day of June in 1952, hails from the humble town of Ballymena located in the County Antrim region. This prominent figure has attained considerable fame and recognition throughout his career. Liam Neeson was an unlikely success story as an actor, blossoming relatively late in life at the age of forty. Nevertheless, from that point onward he achieved one triumph after another and featured in some remarkable movies, for which he gained recognition through several Oscar, BAFTA, and Golden Globe nominations.
4. Micheal Collins – revolutionary leader
Michael Collins, born in the small town of Clonakilty in County Cork, Ireland, in 1890, is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures to ever feature in Irish history. His impact on the nation’s culture and politics can be seen throughout its entire history and his legacy is still felt today.
Michael Collins was a key figure in the 1916 Easter Rising, and afterward, he rose to prominence within the ranks of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). He became Director of Intelligence, Minister for Finance, Chairman of the Provisional Government, and Commander-in-Chief of the National Army. His important positions enabled him to play an influential role in Ireland’s struggle for independence from Britain.
He was tragically slain in August 1922, during the tumultuous Irish Civil War, and his impact is still widely felt and greatly respected even now. His memory lives on in the hearts of many, and his legacy continues to be honored throughout the years.
5. Maureen O’Hara – star of the silver screen
O’Hara, renowned for her spirited roles in westerns and activity cinema for which she achieved fame in the US, came into life on 12th August 1920 and hails from Dublin, Ireland as an actress and vocal artist.
6. Katie Taylor – inspiring female boxer
Katie Taylor is undoubtedly the most renowned female boxer in the world and is currently widely regarded as one of the greatest female boxers that have ever lived. Born in Bray, Wicklow on 2nd July 1986, she began her illustrious boxing career at the early age of 11. She has since gone on to become a household name due to her incredible success within the sport. Katie has achieved remarkable success in her sporting career; after winning a gold medal at the Olympics, she embarked on an exciting new challenge by entering the world of professional boxing. Her talent and skill in the ring have made her an immediate force to be reckoned with, and she is quickly becoming a champion in this highly competitive arena.
7. Mary Robinson – Ireland’s first female president
Born in Ballina, County Mayo, Ireland on 21st May 1944, Mary Robinson achieved distinction for becoming the foremost president & the initial feminine to hold that post. Her designation as the 7th President of Ireland is a significant milestone she is much-revered for. Her ascension to this powerful role marked a significant milestone in Irish history, as she brought about positive changes and made groundbreaking strides toward gender equality.
Mary, who undertook her studies in law at Trinity College Dublin, has been widely acknowledged for the period she spent in the presidential office. She is honored for having made a significant and beneficial impact on the process of converting Ireland into a progressive nation. Her efforts have been applauded by many and are seen as fundamental to the transformation of Ireland into a modern country.
8. James Joyce – influential writer
James Joyce was a renowned Irish writer who made a major contribution to the world of literature. He was born on February 2, 1882, in Dublin and is widely regarded as one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. His best-known work, Ulysses, helped revolutionize fiction writing and his legacy lives on today.
9. Oscar Wilde – literary great
On the 16th of October in 1854, Oscar Fingal O’Flahertie Wils Wilde was born into a wealthy family in Dublin. His parents were well-to-do and provided him with an excellent education, enabling him to attend Trinity College Dublin in the 19th century, where he read Greats as part of his studies.
Oscar Wilde was a renowned literary genius who achieved immense success in London as an acclaimed author and playwright. His works, including the renowned The Picture of Dorian Gray and the widely celebrated The Importance of Being Earnest, made him a beacon of fame in the literary world.
10. Enya – singing sensation
Enya was born in Gweedore, Ireland on the 17th of May in 1961 and quickly rose up to legendary status, having earned countless acclaimed awards such as seven World Music Awards and four Grammy’s over the course of involvement, something which was amplified further by a nomination at both an Academy and Golden Globe.
Other notable famous Irish people
Pierce Brosnan, the renowned actor from Ireland who is widely recognized for his iconic portrayal of fictional British Secret Agent James Bond, is among the most lauded personalities to hail from this land. Another noteworthy individual born in Carlow is John Tyndall (1820 – 1893), a groundbreaking physicist and scientist whose pioneering research had a tremendous impact on his field.
George Bernard Shaw and Jonathan Swift were both playwrights born in Dublin, while Niall Horan is a former member of the band One Direction from Mullingar. Sinead O’Connor is a singer, and Edward Bransfield’s name was given to various landmarks in Antarctica. Dr. James Barry is one of the most famous people from Ireland for performing the first cesarean section.
Michael Fassbender is an acclaimed Irish actor who hails from County Kerry, and he is joined by many other famous figures from Ireland, such as Graham Norton, Brendan Gleeson, Barry McGuigan, Bob Geldof, and Thomas John Barnardo. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
Who is the most famous Irish person today?
Bono, a famed member of the rock group U2, is widely recognized as the most popular and well-known Irish person in the present day, but an emerging and equal level of fame is being achieved by Irish-American actress Saoirse Ronan.
Who is the richest Irish person?
Patrick Collison, the Chief Executive Officer of Stripe, is currently the wealthiest individual in Ireland. His incredible success has enabled him to amass a substantial fortune and establish himself as a prominent figure in the Irish business world. As CEO of Stripe, Patrick plays an instrumental role in driving innovation and helping to propel his company forward – undoubtedly contributing to his impressive wealth. It’s no surprise then that he is now listed as one of Ireland’s richest citizens.
Who is the best Irish actor?
Using Cillian Murphy, Pierce Brosnan, Maureen O’Hara, Brendan Gleeson, Saoirse Ronan, and Chris O’Dowd as examples, it is difficult to identify the very best Irish actors; however, these six certainly rank amongst the most acclaimed.
