The Big Fella
Liam Neeson’s career has skyrocketed in recent years, beginning with his starring role in the celebrated movie Schindler’s List which led to a nomination for an Academy Award.
The County Antrim-born Neeson, a veteran of some 35 movies, now plays the title role in the epic movie by Neil Jordan based on the life of IRA leader Michael Collins, which will be released in October. Neeson has described the role as his biggest ambition, and said he hopes the movie will explain a lot about the origins of the conflict in Northern Ireland.
He retains a keen interest in events in Northern Ireland; and immediately acquiesced when asked to narrate a documentary about integrated schools in the province which was submitted to this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
Neeson has also lent his involvement this year to various events commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Irish Famine.
“There’s a real renaissance happening for some time in Ireland,” Neeson told Irish America magazine. “It’s great to feel so proud to be Irish. I’m not talking about a sentimental feeling, but a real pride in where we come from, and out of all the suffering, good things are blossoming in Ireland.” He and his wife, actress Natasha Richardson, have one son, Michael.
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