Before becoming one of Ireland’s most revered actors, Brendan Gleeson spent years in a classroom, not on a film set. The acclaimed performer and director didn’t land his first movie role until the age of 34, and only left teaching two years after that. Yet, despite the late start, Gleeson’s journey through Hollywood has been nothing short of remarkable.
Fueled by a childhood love for classical literature and theatre, Gleeson transformed his passion for storytelling into a distinguished career on screen, stage, and even behind the camera. From small Dublin stages to major blockbusters, he’s quietly become one of the most respected names in the industry.
Born and raised in Dublin, Brendan Gleeson nurtured an early love for reading, particularly classical texts, which sparked his interest in theatre. Though he studied drama at university, he initially chose a more conventional path, becoming a schoolteacher. Acting was just a side pursuit, reserved for evenings and weekends.
But Gleeson’s natural talent couldn’t stay in the shadows for long. By the time he transitioned to full-time acting in his mid-thirties, he was already catching the eye of industry giants. Over the years, he’s worked with top-tier directors such as Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, Ridley Scott, and the Coen brothers. His versatility has earned him roles alongside Meryl Streep, Brad Pitt, and long-time collaborator Colin Farrell.
His portrayal of diverse characters—from historical figures to complex anti-heroes—has earned him widespread critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Gleeson received a Primetime Emmy Award for playing Winston Churchill in Into the Storm and was nominated for a Golden Globe for The Banshees of Inisherin.
Off-camera, Gleeson is a man of many talents. A passionate musician, he plays both fiddle and mandolin, skills passed down from his grandfather. He’s also a fluent speaker of Irish Gaelic and deeply invested in the folklore and traditions of his homeland. These cultural passions often inform his work and enrich the authenticity of his performances.
Despite his fame, Brendan Gleeson keeps his personal life firmly out of the limelight. He’s been married to his wife Mary since 1982, and the couple has four sons. Two of them, Domhnall and Brían Gleeson, have followed in his footsteps and are now well-known actors themselves. The trio even collaborated on Brendan’s directorial debut, the short film Psychic.
Whether playing a hitman, a historical leader, or lending his voice to animated characters, Brendan Gleeson continues to impress with his depth, authenticity, and Irish soul. His story is a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to follow your calling—and to bring your roots with you along the way.
