Oscar-winning An Irish Goodbye star receives honorary doctorate

Another award to add to the collection.

Belfast man and star of the Oscar-winning An Irish Goodbye James Martin has received an honorary doctorate from Ulster University this week. The 31-year-old, who shot to fame for his performance in the Academy Award winning short film An Irish Goodbye, was recognised by the university for his outstanding contribution to the arts. "I am delighted to be honoured by Ulster University with my Honorary Doctorate. All my mum’s family went to Ulster University, it holds a special place in our hearts," James said. "My message to all of you students: never judge a book by its cover, everyone should have a voice, follow your dreams, have fun with your family and friends, laugh lots and I wish you all the best going forward. “I have worked very hard to achieve the things I do in life.”

Congrats to James Martin on receiving an honorary doctorate for his contribution to the arts after @TheAcademy Award-winning @AnIrishGoodbye_. Earlier this year, @POTUS applauded James during his visit to our Belfast campus, giving him a shoutout in his speech.? pic.twitter.com/jxsyGpiUwr

— Ulster University (@UlsterUni) July 5, 2023

James was among a number of honorary graduates along with gymnast Rhys McClenaghan, poet Michael Longley and broadcaster Sean Rafferty at the ceremony at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast. An Irish Goodbye tells the story of two estranged brothers who reunite following the untimely death of their mother. It received huge praise upon its release and, as well as the Oscar, it also won a BAFTA and IFTA for best short film. [caption id="attachment_770511" align="alignnone" width="2048"] James Martin and the crew behind An Irish Goodbye celebrating their Oscar win (Image via Getty)[/caption] "We had a great team working on the movie which told a universal story that people really connected with and enjoyed watching," Martin added. "The impact it has had on people with learning difficulties has been very positive." Header image from Ulster University.

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