You’ll definitely be watching these.
After hearing that he was nominated for an Oscar for This Sporting Life, it’s often reported that Richard Harris’ immediate reply was “I’ve struck a blow for the Irish rebellion!”
In many ways, it’s almost impossible not to believe this remark because while Harris spent a large part of his career away from Ireland, he never really left.
His love of Munster rugby is legendary and in terms of sheer talent and charisma, it’s arguable that he’s the most influential Irish actor of all time.
Of course, younger generations will fondly remember his all too brief spell as Dumbledore in the first two Harry Potter films, but the Limerick man was also superb in films like Unforgiven, Camelot, Gladiator, A Man Called Horse, and countless others.
All this without mentioning his work in The Field which is still regarded as one of the most important films in Irish history – a role that he also received an Oscar nomination for.
Aside from his acting career, Harris was an accomplished musician and one of – if not THE – greatest people to ever sit down and give an interview.
Seriously, if you ever get the time, take a look at how elegantly and passionately he speaks about Ireland and his pride in coming from Limerick, especially the stories he tells about those in the industry that tended to ‘look down’ on people of Irish heritage.
All in all, he’d be some man to go for a pint with.
In a new documentary, the first line we hear from Fear darb ainm Harris states that “I think Richard Harris broke a mould” before the gifted actor recounts a story about drinking the Shannon dry – presumably with his good friend Peter O’Toole for company.
This documentary isn’t the only interesting feature on TG4’s new autumn slate as there’s plenty for those interested in Irish history too.
Martin McGuinness – I Fought, I made Peace, I made Politics will provide an insight into the life and times of Martin McGuinness, while De Valera i Meiriceá follows the extraordinary story of Éamon de Valera as he travelled to America in 1919.
Fans of true crime shows will be delighted to hear that the series Finné is back for a second season. Produced by Tua Films and presented by RTÉ correspondent Orla O’Donnell, Finné will visit more powerful Irish stories, stories about suffering, injustice, redemption, resilience and strength.
Elsewhere, Uchtú will see Evanne Nà Chuilinn exploring the long and often difficult story of adoption in Ireland, while Máthair Trump – The President’s Mother explores the story of Donald Trump’s mother, Mary MacLeod who left the Hebrides for America in search of a better life.
Here’s a closer look at what’s in store.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l4MXd1Kg_g&feature=youtu.be
Clip via TG4
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