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 recognized 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's Birth

Cillian Murphy was born on May 25, 1976, in Douglas, Cork, Ireland, to a French teacher mother and a father working for the Department of Education. He grew up in Ballintemple, Cork, with his siblings and began writing and performing songs at the age of 10.

1996: Started Studying Law

In 1996, Cillian Murphy began studying law at University College Cork but failed his first-year exams and realized he did not want to practice law. He became involved in the UCC Drama Society, starring in productions such as Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme and Little Shop of Horrors.

2001: Acting in Multiple Productions

In 2001, Cillian Murphy appeared in the film On the Edge, the short film Watchmen, the film adaption of Disco Pigs, and the BBC television mini-series adaptation of The Way We Live Now. He also moved from Cork to Dublin and then to London.

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: Preparation for Breakfast on Pluto Role

In 2004, Cillian Murphy prepared for the role in Breakfast on Pluto by meeting a transvestite who dressed him and took him clubbing with other transvestites.

2007: Participating in 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 campaigned for the rights of the homeless with the organisation Focus Ireland.

2007: Role in Sunshine and Shift Towards Atheism

In 2007, Cillian Murphy starred in the film Sunshine as a physicist and astronaut, which influenced his views, shifting them towards atheism.

Loading Video...

2010: First television talk show appearance

In 2010, Cillian Murphy made his first appearance on a television talk show, Ireland's Late Late Show, to promote 'Perrier's Bounty', while still remaining reserved.

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: Message of support to 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.

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 of Irish referendum

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