Early Life and Education of Cillian Murphy: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Cillian Murphy. From birth to education, explore key events.

Cillian Murphy is a highly acclaimed Irish actor known for his versatile performances across stage and screen. He has received numerous prestigious awards, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a Golden Globe Award, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

May 1976: Cillian Murphy Born

In May 1976, Cillian Murphy, the Irish actor known for his stage and screen work, was born.

May 1976: Birth in Douglas, Cork

On 25 May 1976, Cillian Murphy was born in Douglas, Cork, to a mother who taught French and a father who worked for the Department of Education. He was raised in Ballintemple, Cork.

1996: Started Studying Law

In 1996, Cillian Murphy began studying law at University College Cork (UCC) but failed his first-year exams due to lack of interest. He was also involved with his band and discovered his passion for acting after seeing a stage production of A Clockwork Orange.

1996: Meeting Yvonne McGuinness

In 1996, Cillian Murphy met Yvonne McGuinness at one of his rock band's shows.

2001: Move to London

In 2001, Cillian Murphy and his wife moved from Dublin to London so that she could attend the Royal College of Art.

2004: Marriage to Yvonne McGuinness

In 2004, Cillian Murphy married his longtime girlfriend, Yvonne McGuinness, whom he had met at one of his rock band's shows in 1996.

2004: Preparing for Breakfast on Pluto Role

In 2004, Cillian Murphy prepared for his role in "Breakfast on Pluto" by meeting a transvestite and going clubbing with other transvestites.

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2005: Birth of first son

In 2005, Cillian Murphy and Yvonne McGuinness had their first son.

2006: The Wind That Shakes the Barley Broke Record

In 2006, "The Wind That Shakes the Barley" broke "Intermission" record and became the highest-grossing Irish independent film at the Irish box office.

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2007: Birth of second son

In 2007, Cillian Murphy and Yvonne McGuinness had their second son.

2007: Rock the Vote Ireland campaign

In 2007, Cillian Murphy participated in the Rock the Vote Ireland campaign and campaigned for the rights of the homeless with Focus Ireland.

2007: Shift towards atheism

In 2007, Cillian Murphy's views shifted towards atheism after playing a physicist and astronaut in the film Sunshine.

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2011: Patron of UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre

In 2011, Cillian Murphy became a patron of the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre at the National University of Ireland Galway.

February 2012: Support for Vita Cortex Workers

In February 2012, Cillian Murphy wrote a message of support to the former Vita Cortex workers involved in a sit-in at their plant.

2015: Return to Dublin

After 14 years in London, Cillian Murphy and his wife moved back to Dublin in 2015.

2017: Asked about Disappointed Cillian Murphy Meme

In 2017, Cillian Murphy was asked his opinion on the "Disappointed Cillian Murphy" meme and responded, "What's a meme?".

2018: Support for Irish Referendum

In 2018, Cillian Murphy supported the Irish referendum to repeal the eighth amendment, appearing on The Blindboy Podcast to urge men to support women and vote in favor of the referendum.