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 prestigious awards, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a Golden Globe Award, recognizing his talent and contribution to the entertainment industry. Murphy's work showcases his range and dedication, establishing him as a prominent figure in contemporary acting.

Sections (4)

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

May 1976: Cillian Murphy's Birth

In May 1976, Cillian Murphy was born in Douglas, Cork. His mother was a French teacher and his father, Brendan, worked for the Department of Education. He was raised in Ballintemple, Cork.

1996: Studied Law at University College Cork

In 1996, Cillian Murphy began studying law at University College Cork (UCC) but failed his first-year exams. He was also busy with his band and knew he didn't want to practice law. He then started focusing on acting after seeing Corcadorca's stage production of A Clockwork Orange.

2004: Marriage to Yvonne McGuinness

In 2004, Cillian Murphy married his longtime girlfriend Yvonne McGuinness, whom he had met at a rock band show in 1996.

2006: The Wind That Shakes the Barley Broke Records

In 2006, 'The Wind That Shakes the Barley' broke the record for highest-grossing Irish independent film, previously held by Intermission from 2003.

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2007: Rock the Vote Ireland Campaign

In 2007, Cillian Murphy participated in the Rock the Vote Ireland campaign, targeting young voters for the general election, and campaigning 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: Named One of GQ's Best-Dressed Men

In 2015, Cillian Murphy was named one of GQ's 50 best-dressed men.

2017: Response to "Disappointed Cillian Murphy" Meme

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

2018: Support for Repeal of Eighth Amendment

In 2018, Cillian Murphy supported the Irish referendum to repeal the eighth amendment of the constitution that restricted access to abortions, appearing on The Blindboy Podcast.