Cillian Murphy Wiki, Height, Age, Family, Wife, Net Worth and Career
Cillian Murphy born on May 25, 1976 is a gifted actor from Ireland who has performed on both stages

Cillian Murphy born on May 25, 1976 is a gifted actor from Ireland who has performed on both stages and in films. His rise to fame can be attributed to remarkable portrayals in both indie and blockbuster movies. Although he began his journey as a musician in the rock genre, he opted to decline a record contract so he could dedicate his efforts to acting.
In 1996, he debuted in theatre portraying Darren in Enda Walsh’s production ‘Disco Pigs.’ Shortly thereafter, he was inundated with film opportunities. Though he has built a successful career in film, Cillian has shown a significant preference for remaining involved in theatre. Over the last fifteen years, he has participated in some of the most creative, iconic, and essential works in the film industry.
He teamed up with Danny Boyle again in the movie ‘Sunshine,’ acted alongside Rachel McAdams in ‘Red Eye,’ and worked with Christopher Nolan on The Dark Knight Trilogy, ‘Inception,’ and ‘Dunkirk.’ In 2011, he was appointed as the patron of the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre at National University of Ireland, Galway.
Who is Cillian Murphy?
Cillian Murphy was born on May 25, 1976, in Douglas, located in County Cork, Ireland, is a renowned actor and musician. He is particularly recognized for his portrayal of Thomas Shelby in the acclaimed series “Peaky Blinders,” which aired on both BBC and Netflix. Murphy’s journey in both cinema and theater has established him as one of the most adaptable and skilled performers of contemporary times.
Why is Cillian Murphy Famous?
Cillian Murphy rose to prominence through his powerful performances in a range of critically lauded films and television shows. His career breakthrough occurred with the horror film “28 Days Later” (2002), where his gripping portrayal drew significant acclaim.
Murphy further solidified his fame through his collaborations with Christopher Nolan in films such as “Batman Begins” (2005), “Inception” (2010), and “Oppenheimer” (2023). Moreover, his depiction of Tommy Shelby in the popular series “Peaky Blinders” immensely boosted his profile, making him a recognizable figure worldwide.
Cillian Murphy Wikipedia/Bio
Cillian Murphy was born on May 25, 1976, in Douglas, Cork, Ireland. He comes from a clan of educators. His family, including his parents, grandfather, aunts, and uncles, all worked in teaching. Growing up in Ballintemple, Cork, he has a younger brother named Páidi and two younger sisters, Sile and Orla. At just 10 years old, Cillian began composing and performing music.
Cillian started his career in the arts with a focus on music before completely shifting to acting. Over time, he has established a strong reputation with his impactful performances across theater, film and television, solidifying his status as a key player in contemporary cinema.
He was brought up in a Roman Catholic household. Initially, he intended to pursue a career in law studies but eventually chose to leave that path. He shifted his focus to acting, taking part in various plays. Murphy’s journey into professional acting commenced in 1996, leading him to stage performances in Dublin and London throughout the remainder of the decade.
When discussing British crime drama series, one cannot overlook Peaky Blinders, which invariably ranks high on the list. This show set trends and offered a cultural phenomenon, granting Murphy, an Irish actor and producer, international acclaim. He starred as Tommy Shelby, the main character in the series. Notable roles also include his portrayal of “Scarecrow” in Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy.
His acting career kicked off with The Tale of Sweety Barrett in 1998. More recently, he appeared in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, released in 2023. Additionally, Cillian played a part in the cultural crossover known as Barbenheimer, stemming from the simultaneous launch of both Barbie and Oppenheimer. Murphy is an Oscar recipient and has also won a BAFTA Award.
Real Name | Cillian Murphy |
Nickname | Cilly Lian |
Birthday | May 25, 1976 |
Age | 47 years old |
Birthplace | Douglas, Cork, Ireland |
Present Residence | Monkstown, in South County Dublin, Ireland |
Gender | Male |
Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
Nationality | Irish, British |
Mother Tongue | Irish, English |
Ethnicity | Irish |
Religion | Roman Catholic Christian (By Birth) Atheism (Now) |
Occupation | Acting Producer |
Net Worth | USD $20 million |
Cillian Murphy Age
Cillian Murphy birthdate is May 25, 1976, which makes him 48 years old as of 2024. Even as he approaches fifty, Murphy retains a youthful vibrancy and continues to deliver outstanding performances across diverse media platforms, affirming his lasting appeal and energy within the acting sphere.
Cillian Murphy Zodiac sign
His astrological sign is Gemini, with an Aries moon. Individuals born under this sign are often perceived as clever, genuine, athletic, and driven. They are typically characterized by their insight, vibrancy, bravery, self-assurance, and zest for life. Noteworthy figures such as Donald Trump, Lexi Rivera, Ben Stokes, and Tom Holland share this zodiac sign with him.
Cillian Murphy Height and Weight
Cillian Murphy height are prevalent among fans and the media. Official measurements indicate Murphy stands at 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm), although some reports occasionally propose minor discrepancies. He maintains a slim figure, with a weight around 70 kg (154 lbs).
His stature and physique have suited numerous intense and varied roles, enhancing his unique presence in cinematic portrayals. Murphy deep brown eyes and dark hair enhance the mysterious charm that characterizes his roles on screen. These features, along with his expressive eyes and powerful presence, bring an extra dimension to the subtle performances for which he is celebrated.
Cillian Murphy Early Life & Education
Cillian Murphy is the first of four siblings, born in Douglas and brought up in Ballintemple, both areas in Cork. His father, Brendan Murphy, is employed by the Irish Department of Education, while his mother teaches French. His family has deep educational roots, as both parents, along with several aunts, uncles, and his grandfather, are teachers.
At the age of 10, Cillian started playing music and writing songs, a tradition that runs in his family. His siblings include Páidi Murphy, Orla Murphy, and Sile Murphy. Cillian attended Presentation Brothers College, a Catholic school, where he excelled in his studies despite frequently getting into trouble, leading to suspensions until he recognized that mischief was not worth the consequences in his fourth year.
Not particularly interested in sports, which played a significant role at PBC, Cillian found that the school did not fully promote creative pursuits. Nevertheless, he had his first taste of acting when he joined a drama module conducted by Pat Kiernan, who leads the Corcadorca Theatre Company.
Cillian later described this experience as a “big high” and a feeling of being “completely alive” that he wanted to chase. His English teacher, poet and author William Wall, encouraged him to embrace acting, yet at that moment, Cillian was mainly fixated on aspiring to be a rock star.
School | Presentation Brothers College |
College/University | University College Cork |
Qualification | Law Theatre |
Cillian Murphy Personal Life
In 2004, Murphy wed his longstanding partner, Yvonne McGuinness. Their initial encounter took place in 1996 during one of his band’s performances. They have two children, Malachy, born in 2005, and Aran, born in 2007. Music continues to play a significant role in Cillian’s existence, despite not being part of a band anymore.
He still frequently collaborates musically with friends independently, composes songs, and attends live performances. A passionate runner, Cillian maintained a vegetarian diet for an extended period before resuming meat consumption for his role in “Peaky Blinders.”
Murphy is recognized for his reluctance to talk about his private life. He often gives interviews regarding his professional endeavors but steers clear of television talk shows, where it is customary for artists to share insights into their personal affairs. He journeys without a support team and often goes to premieres solo, as he lacks both a stylist and a publicist.
Murphy, who is both reserved and humble, asserts that he has little interest in the world of fame, describing the red carpet as “a chore… and not something I wish to conquer.” He intentionally adopts a lifestyle that avoids media scrutiny: “I’ve created no scandals, I do not engage in casual affairs, and I refrain from excessive drinking.”
Celebrity Squad
Cillian Murphy has cultivated strong professional bonds with various notable individuals in the film industry. His continued partnership with director Christopher Nolan has led to numerous successful ventures.
Additionally, Murphy has collaborated with actors such as Tom Hardy and Paul Anderson in “Peaky Blinders,” nurturing a solid camaraderie on and off the set. Nonetheless, despite these connections, Murphy is recognized for his modesty and commitment to his craft instead of a focus on the celebrity lifestyle.
Lifestyle
In spite of his achievements and significant fortune, Cillian Murphy maintains an exceptionally modest and straightforward way of living. He calls Dublin, Ireland his home, opting for this city due to its blend of cultural richness and personal seclusion. Murphy champions environmental awareness, frequently utilizing public transport and cycling as his main means of getting around. His choices reflect his dedication to both sustainability and a humble existence.
Cillian Murphy Parents and Siblings/Family
Cillian parents hail from Ireland. His mother, Jane, was a French language educator, while his father, Brendan, was involved with the Department of Education. The Murphy family is deeply rooted in education, with his grandfather, aunts, and uncles all being teachers. He grew up in Cork, Ireland, alongside his younger brother Páidi and two younger sisters, Sile and Orla.
His English teacher, the novelist William Wall, motivated him to consider acting, but Cillian aimed to carve out a path as a rock musician. Along with Páidi, he developed a fascination for The Beatles. On one occasion, he remarked about his disinterest in a musical career.
Father | Brendan Murphy |
Mother | Jane Murphy |
Brother | Páidi Murphy |
Sisters | Sile Murphy Orla Murphy |
Best Friend | Tom Hardy |
Cillian Murphy Wife/Marriage
Cillian Murphy tied the knot with his long-time girlfriend Yvonne McGuinness in 2015, after meeting her during one of his band’s performances in 1996. Yvonne is a visual artist from Ireland. Following their wedding, they resided in Dublin until 2001. The couple later relocated to London to enable Yvonne to study at the Royal College of Art. After 14 years away, they returned to Dublin in 2015. They are parents to two sons, Malachy and Aran, who were born in December 2005 and July 2007, respectively.
Wife | Yvonne McGuinness |
Sons | Malachy Murphy Aran Murphy |
Cillian Murphy Relationship
Cillian Murphy tied the knot with his long-term partner, Yvonne McGuinness, in 2004. Their initial encounter took place at a music performance of his band in 1996. The duo has been blessed with two sons, Malachy (born in 2005) and Aran (born in 2007). Murphy’s dedication to keeping his personal life discreet and low-profile is evident in his choice to stay away from the spotlight often associated with celebrities.
Favorites
Favorite Color | Blue |
Favorite Actor | Liam Neeson Tom Hardy |
Favorite Actress | Emily Blunt Downey Chris Emma |
Favorite Music Band | The Beatles |
Favorite TV show | Doctor Who |
Favorite Movie | The Butcher Boy Star Wars Arizona Dream Mean Streets The Shining |
Favorite Food | Vegetables Cheese |
Favorite Song | The Final Countdown Man of the World Always Trying to Work It Out No Surprises Maybe I am Amazed |
Favorite Sports | Football |
Favorite Destination | West Kerry on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way |
Favorite Books | The Ginger Man Appointment in Samarra Eclipse The Sportswriter |
Cillian Murphy Career
Cillian Murphy aimed to carve out a niche as a rock artist in his late teens and early twenties, performing guitar in several bands alongside his brother Pádraig. Inspired by a 1969 song from another idol, Frank Zappa, the pair, obsessed with The Beatles, branded their most popular band The Sons of Mr Greengenes.
Cillian was part of this band, which, in his words, “focused on unconventional tunes and extended guitar improvisations.” His parents opposed this endeavor since his brother was still attending high school. Moreover, the contract offered insufficient financial compensation and would have given the record company ownership of Murphy’s musical works.
In 1996, Cillian commenced his law studies at University College Cork (UCC), but he failed his initial year’s exams because he had “no interest in pursuing it,” as he put it. His attention was not only on his band, but he also recognized upon arriving at UCC that law did not align with his creative disposition. Additionally, his interest in acting was sparked after witnessing Corcadorca’s staging of A Clockwork Orange, directed by Kiernan.
Murphy’s first notable role emerged in an amateur production of Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme by the UCC Drama Society, although he admits his primary intention was socializing and meeting women, not embarking on an acting career. Nonetheless, he gradually shifted away from being a rock musician, later stating, “I believe there is something called performance.”
1996–2002: Work in theatre and Early roles
Murphy urged Pat Kiernan until he secured an audition at Corcadorca Theatre Company; in September 1996, he debuted professionally as an actor on stage, portraying a volatile teenager from Cork in Enda Walsh’s Disco Pigs. Walsh reminisced about their first encounter and recognizing Murphy’s talent, stating, “There was something intriguing about him he entered a room with undeniable presence that would make you think, ‘Wow’. It wasn’t just those striking eyes everyone keeps mentioning.”
Murphy reflected, “I was excessively confident and had nothing to risk, which, I guess, fit the character.” Initially planned for a three-week run in Cork, Disco Pigs eventually toured Europe, Canada, and Australia for two years, leading Murphy to leave both university and his band. Although he had plans to return to music, he gained representation after his first agent saw him perform in Disco Pigs, marking the beginning of his acting career.
He participated in various theatrical productions, such as Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing (1998), The Country Boy, and Juno and the Paycock (both in 1999). He also began to feature in independent movies like On the Edge (2001), along with short films such as Filleann an Feall (2000) and Watchmen (2001). He returned to his role for the film adaptation of Disco Pigs (2001) and acted in the BBC mini-series adaptation of The Way We Live Now.
He moved from Cork, first relocating to Dublin for a couple of years, before settling in London in 2001. In 2002, Murphy portrayed Adam in a theatrical production of Neil LaBute’s The Shape of Things at Dublin’s Gate Theatre. Fintan O’Toole wrote in The Irish Times, commending Murphy’s performance by stating, “Murphy navigates his transformation with striking subtlety and intellect.”
2002–2004: 28 Days Later and significant breakthrough
Murphy landed the leading role in Danny Boyle’s horror movie 28 Days Later (2002). He depicted Jim, a pandemic survivor who finds himself bewildered and alone in a barren, post-apocalyptic landscape after awakening from a coma in a hospital in London. Casting director Gail Stevens recommended that Boyle consider Murphy for the role, having been impressed by his work in Disco Pigs.
Stevens mentioned it was only after observing his lean physique during filming that they chose to have him appear completely nude at the film’s opening. She remembered that Murphy was somewhat shy on set and had a habit of glancing slightly away from the camera, but she highlighted that he possessed a “dreamy, somewhat unenergetic, ethereal quality that worked perfectly for the film.”
Released in the UK in late 2002, by the next July, 28 Days Later had turned into an unexpected hit in North America and experienced global success, placing Murphy in front of a large audience for the very first time. His outstanding work led to a nomination for Best Newcomer at the 8th Empire Awards, along with Breakthrough Male Performance at the 2004 MTV Movie Awards.
Murphy stated that he viewed the movie as significantly more profound than just a zombie or horror flick, expressing his astonishment at its popularity and how the American audience reacted positively to its themes and violence. Murphy remarked, “The film was a huge success. Looking at zombie films today, we were pioneers in creating running zombies, and that shifted everything. That film holds a very special place in my heart.”
In 2003, Murphy took on the character of Konstantine in a theatrical adaptation of Chekhov’s The Seagull at the Edinburgh International Festival. He expressed his desire to play Konstantine because the character undertaken an incredible journey throughout the play, concluding that being a non-conformist writer should have meaningful purpose, and the quest for fresh forms must be grounded in something substantial.
Murphy featured as a lovesick and unsuccessful supermarket stock clerk who conspires with Colin Farrell to carry out a bank robbery in Intermission (2003), which became the top-grossing Irish independent movie in Irish box office history until The Wind That Shakes the Barley surpassed it in 2006.
In analyzing his portrayals in 28 Days Later and the “sad-sack Dublin shelf-stacker” in Intermission, Sarah Lyall from the International Herald Tribune noted that Murphy delivered “natural ease to the characters he embodies, exhibiting a graceful and completely believable intensity. His delicate attractiveness has led people to consider him as Ireland’s next Colin Farrell, but one who appears less inclined to be seen engaging in scandals or drunken brawling at film premieres.”
He had a small supporting part in the successful Hollywood historical drama Cold Mountain (2003), playing a soldier who deserts and shares a somber moment with Jude Law’s character, having spent only a week shooting on-site in Romania. Murphy mentioned it was a “huge production,” noting that director Anthony Minghella was the most composed director he had ever encountered. Murphy also played a butcher in Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003), alongside Scarlett Johansson and Colin Firth.
In 2004, Murphy traveled across Ireland with the Druid Theatre Company in The Playboy of the Western World, where he portrayed Christy Mahon, under the direction of Garry Hynes who had previously worked with Murphy in 1999 for the theater productions of Juno and the Paycock and also in The Country Boy.
From Music to Theatre: Murphy’s First Steps on Stage
Transitioning from his early days as a musician to becoming a rising star in acting was a significant change in Cillian artistic path. Although he initially concentrated on music and aimed for rock stardom, his exposure to acting through a drama course at Corcadorca Theatre Company sparked a new passion.
In 1996, he made his debut in professional acting in Enda Walsh’s “Disco Pigs,” where he played an unpredictable teenager from Cork. His portrayal drew immediate attention, mesmerizing audiences with his innate talent and undeniable charisma on stage. What started as one performance quickly evolved into a thriving theatrical career.
Murphy to act in various productions, such as Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” and “Juno and the Paycock.” His theatrical skill and ability to embody intricate characters cemented his status as a multifaceted actor, laying the groundwork for his future achievements in both theater and film.
The Film Industry: Early Successes and Challenges
Entering the film industry represented a pivotal point in Cillian journey, bringing both prospects and obstacles. After finding success in theater, he stepped into filmmaking with roles in independent projects and short films. His portrayal of pandemic survivor Jim in Danny Boyle’s “28 Days Later” (2002) elevated him to worldwide fame.
Murphy’s compelling performance displayed his capacity to dominate the screen with subtlety and intensity, earning him positive reviews and setting the stage for further accomplishments in cinema. Despite early triumphs, Murphy encountered hurdles in maneuvering through Hollywood’s competitive scene.
Yet, his passion for his art and unwavering commitment to authenticity helped him endure. With each new character, Murphy consistently demonstrated his versatility as an actor adept at embracing a wide array of roles and genres, preparing the groundwork for a prolific and lasting career in film.
Title | Role | Year |
---|---|---|
Sweety Barrett | Pat the Barman | 1998 |
Sunburn | Davin McDerby | 1999 |
The Trench | Rag Rookwood | |
Disco Pigs | Pig – Darren | 2001 |
How Harry Became a Tree | Gus | |
On the Edge | Jonathan Breech | |
28 Days Later… | Jim | 2002 |
Intermission | John | 2003 |
Girl with a Pearl Earring | Pieter | |
Cold Mountain | Bardolph | |
Batman Begins | Dr. Jonathan Crane / The Scarecrow | 2005 |
Red Eye | Jackson Rippner | |
Breakfast on Pluto | Patrick ‘Kitten’ Braden | |
The Wind that Shakes the Barley | Damien | 2006 |
Sunshine | Robert Capa | 2007 |
Watching the Detectives | Neil | |
The Edge of Love | William Killick | 2008 |
The Dark Knight | Dr. Jonathan Crane / The Scarecrow | |
Perrier’s Bounty | Michael | 2009 |
Peacock | John / Emma Skillpa | 2010 |
Inception | Robert Fischer | |
TRON: Legacy | Edward Dillinger | |
Retreat | Martin | 2011 |
In Time | Raymond Leon | |
Red Lights | Tom Buckley | 2012 |
Broken | Mike Kiernan | |
The Dark Knight Rises | Dr. Jonathan Crane / The Scarecrow | |
Aloft | Ivan | 2014 |
Transcendence | Agent Buchanan | |
In the Heart of the Sea | Matthew Joy | 2015 |
Anthropoid | Josef Gabcík | 2016 |
Free Fire | Chris | |
The Party | Tom | 2017 |
Dunkirk | Shivering Soldier | |
The Delinquent Season | Jim / Danielle’s Husband | 2018 |
Anna | Lenny Miller | 2019 |
A Quiet Place Part II | Emmett | 2020 |
Working with Christopher Nolan: A Pivotal Moment
Cillian Murphy partnership with renowned director Christopher Nolan marked a pivotal moment in his professional journey, propelling him to unprecedented levels of fame and respect. It all started in 2005 with “Batman Begins,” in which Murphy played the legendary antagonist Scarecrow.
Initially thought to be a candidate for the role of Batman, Murphy’s captivating aura and remarkable gaze captivated Nolan, resulting in his selection as Dr. Jonathan Crane, also known as Scarecrow. Murphy’s performance was praised for its haunting intensity, providing additional layers to the well-known character.
This partnership went beyond the Batman series, with Murphy delivering impressive performances in Nolan’s “Inception” (2010) and “Dunkirk” (2017). These projects highlighted Murphy’s adaptability as an actor and reinforced his position as an essential collaborator within Nolan’s film universe.
For Murphy, collaborating with Nolan not only opened doors for him to display his talent on an international scale but also enabled him to delve into intricate characters within innovative stories, establishing his standing as one of the most captivating actors of his era.
Television Triumph: “Peaky Blinders” and More
Cillian Murphy venture into television yielded remarkable success, particularly with his memorable role as Tommy Shelby in the celebrated BBC historical drama series, “Peaky Blinders.” Debuting in 2013, “Peaky Blinders” chronicles the adventures of the Shelby crime family in post-World War I Birmingham, England.
As the intriguing leader of the Peaky Blinders organization, Murphy’s performance entranced both audience members and critics, earning him significant recognition and confirming his status as a television force.
Murphy’s interpretation of Tommy Shelby extended beyond mere acting, showcasing his capability to portray layered characters with richness and complexity. Through his brooding intensity and strategic intellect, Murphy infused Tommy Shelby with an engaging charisma that resonated with viewers globally.
Following “Peaky Blinders,” Murphy’s success in television continued to thrive through roles in other distinguished series like “The Wind That Shakes the Barley,” “The Way We Live Now,” and “Misterman.” Each part highlighted Murphy’s flexibility as an actor, further strengthening his image as one of the most captivating performers in the field.
Cillian Murphy Top Movies & TV Shows
1. Oppenheimer (2023)
This film showcases Murphy’s most acclaimed role yet, where he embodies J. Robert Oppenheimer. Directed and penned by Christopher Nolan, who has worked alongside Murphy in various projects, the film draws inspiration from Oppenheimer’s biography, delving into his scientific milestones, personal challenges, and ethical conflicts. It garnered two Academy Awards and achieved a box office success of over $946 million globally.
2. Peaky Blinders (2013-2022)
This acclaimed British television drama depicts the adventures of the Shelby crime syndicate in Birmingham, England, in the aftermath of World War I. Murphy takes on the role of Tommy Shelby, the determined and merciless head of the family, navigating intricate relationships with kin, adversaries, and companions. Renowned for its chic cinematography, historical fidelity, and outstanding cast, which features Helen McCrory, Tom Hardy, Sam Neill, and Adrien Brody, the series has made a notable impact.
3. The Dark Knight Trilogy (2005-2012)
This trilogy of Batman films, directed by Christopher Nolan, is both critically revered and commercially thriving. Murphy portrays Dr. Jonathan Crane, known as Scarecrow, a deranged psychologist wielding fear-inducing toxins as his primary tool. He serves as a recurring antagonist across all three films, providing a counterpoint to Batman. The series is acclaimed for its somber realism, intricate themes, and exceptional performances by actors like Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, and Anne Hathaway.
4. Inception (2010)
In this remarkable creation by Christopher Nolan, Murphy plays Robert Fischer, a rich entrepreneur targeted by a crew of dream infiltrators led by Leonardo DiCaprio. The film presents a compelling sci-fi thriller that investigates the intersections of dreams, reality, and the subconscious mind. It boasts breathtaking visual effects, an innovative score by Hans Zimmer, and an impressive ensemble cast that includes Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Elliot Page, Ken Watanabe, Marion Cotillard, and Michael Caine.
5. 28 Days Later (2002)
This film marks a significant early role for Murphy as Jim, a bike courier who, upon awakening from a coma, discovers a deserted London overtaken by zombies infected with a violent virus. He allies with a group of survivors aiming to locate safety in a devastated world. Directed by Danny Boyle and scripted by Alex Garland, this film is hailed as one of the finest zombie films ever and a pioneer of the fast zombie genre.
Television
Cillian portrayed Thomas Shelby in the BBC’s longest-running crime drama series “Peaky Blinders.” Below is a list of TV shows in which he played a notable part:
The Way We Live Now | 2001 |
Peaky Blinders | 2013-2022 |
Atlantic: The Wildest Ocean on Earth | 2015 |
The Irish Revolution | 2019 |
Fight for First: Excel Esports | 2020 |
Acting Career
Cillian Murphy began his journey as a rock musician, he became well-known for his acting skills. In September 1996, Murphy auditioned for the Corcadorca Theatre Company and made his professional debut in the play “Disco Pigs” later that same year. Initially, “Disco Pigs” was scheduled for a three-week run, but it eventually toured Europe, Canada, and Australia for two years.
This prompted Murphy to leave university and his musical group. After the run of “Disco Pigs,” he planned to return to music, but he instead signed with a talent agent, allowing his acting career to flourish. Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Murphy appeared in various Irish and British theater and film productions. He spent a few years in Dublin before relocating to London in 2001.
Cillian garnered international recognition with his prominent role as Jim in Danny Boyle’s post-apocalyptic movie “28 Days Later” in 2002. “28 Days Later” unexpectedly became a success in North America and internationally, establishing Murphy among a whole new audience. His performance garnered nominations for Best Newcomer at the Empire Awards and Breakthrough Male Performance at the MTV Movie Awards.
In 2003, he returned to the stage in Chekhov’s “The Seagull” during the Edinburgh International Festival. He then appeared alongside Colin Farrell in “Intermission,” which became the top-grossing Irish independent film ever at the Irish box office. Later that same year, he had a minor role in “Cold Mountain,” acting alongside Jude Law.
He also featured in “Girl with a Pearl Earring” with Scarlett Johansson. In 2004, he returned to the stage, touring Ireland with the Druid Theatre Company. Next came several career-defining roles, including the 2010 hit film “Inception,” along with the superhero movie “Batman Begins,” a part he reprised in cameo appearances for “The Dark Knight” and “The Dark Knight Rises,” as well as in the thriller “Red Eye.”
Since 2013, Murphy has been the lead character, Tommy Shelby, in the widely acclaimed BBC series “Peaky Blinders,” which follows a criminal gang in 1920s Birmingham, England. In 2014, he co-starred with Jennifer Connelly in the film “Aloft” and appeared in Ron Howard’s 2015 movie “In the Heart of the Sea.”
In 2016, he played the role of World War II soldier Jozef Gabcik in “Anthropoid,” alongside Jamie Dornan. In 2017, he had a smaller role as a traumatized army officer in Christopher Nolan’s epic war film “Dunkirk.” He has received numerous nominations and awards for his performance in “Peaky Blinders.”
In 2023, Cillian portrayed physicist Robert Oppenheimer in Christopher Nolan’s film “Oppenheimer.” On March 10, 2024, he was awarded the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in the film. Nolan also received the Best Director Oscar, Robert Downey Jr. was honored with Best Supporting Actor, and the movie claimed the Best Picture award.
Awards & Achievements
Cillian Murphy was awarded his first accolade, the Best Actor Award, at the Ourense Independent Film Festival in 2002 for his work in the film adaptation of ‘Disco Pigs.’ In 2006, he was nominated for a Golden Globe for his role in ‘Breakfast on Pluto.’
His involvement in ‘The Dark Knight’ garnered his film cast the ACCA Award for Best Cast Ensemble in 2008. He received the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Solo Performance in 2012 due to his performance as Thomas Magill in ‘Misterman.’ In 2014, he was honored with the Golden FIPA AWARD for Best Actor in a TV Series & Serials for ‘Peaky Blinders.’
British Academy Film Awards Golden Globe Awards Screen Actors Guild Awards Palm Springs International Film Festival Capri Hollywood International Film Festival Saturn Awards Satellite Awards | 2024 |
Irish Film & Television Awards | 2007-2020 |
National Television Awards | 2022 |
New York Film Critics Online Awards Washington D.C. Area Film Critics Association Awards Dublin Film Critics’ Circle Awards | 2023 |
Oscar | 2024 |
Cillian Murphy Net Worth
Cillian Murphy is a film and theater actor from Ireland with a net worth of $20 million. His professional acting career began in the 1996 play “Disco Pigs,” and he has since taken on numerous diverse roles, including the Scarecrow in “Batman Begins,” Jackson Rippner in “Red Eye,” and Kitten/Patricia in “Breakfast on Pluto.”
Murphy is widely recognized for his portrayal of Thomas Shelby in the BBC and Netflix series “Peaky Blinders.” He has garnered significant praise for his performance in the series, which is celebrated for its striking visuals, intricate characters, and sharp dialogue.
Social Media Account
@cillianmurphyofficiall | 1.2M followers | |
@OfficialCillian | 1,500 Followers | |
@cillianmurphyactor | 244K followers |
FAQ
Q1. Who is Lena Headey?
Ans. Cillian Murphy was born on May 25, 1976, in Douglas, located in County Cork, Ireland, is a renowned actor and musician. He is particularly recognized for his portrayal of Thomas Shelby in the acclaimed series “Peaky Blinders,” which aired on both BBC and Netflix.
Q2. What is her Real Name?
Ans. Cillian Murphy’s full name is Cillian Damien Murphy.
Q3. Why is Cillian Murphy so famous?
Ans. Cillian Murphy’s recognition arises from his engaging roles in well-known films and television shows.
Q4. What is Cillian Murphy’s age in 2024?
Ans. Cillian Murphy birthdate is May 25, 1976, which makes him 48 years old as of 2024.
Q5. What is Cillian Murphy’s height and weight?
Ans. Cillian Murphy stands at 5 feet 9 inches and weighs around 70 kilograms.
Q6. What is Cillian Murphy’s financial net worth?
Ans. Cillian Murphy’s financial net worth is estimated to be around $20 million.
Q7. Is Cillian Murphy Russian?
Ans. He is an Irish individual born in Cork, Ireland.
Q8. Does Cillian Murphy have a wife?
Ans. In 2004, he wed his long-term partner Yvonne McGuinness, an Irish visual arts creator.
Q9. What is the religion of Cillian Murphy?
Ans. Raised in a family that practiced Roman Catholicism, he now describes himself as an Atheist following his experience in Sunshine.
Q10. How many Oscars does Cillian Murphy have?
Ans. He received an Oscar nomination and achieved a total of 39 various awards.
Q11. What awards has Cillian Murphy won?
Ans. Throughout his career, Cillian has been honored with 40 awards, with significant recognition for his diverse acting performances in movies like “Inception” and “The Dark Knight Trilogy.”
Q12. What is Cillian Murphy’s educational background?
Ans. He attended Presentation Brothers College where he performed well academically. Later, he enrolled at University College Cork (UCC) to study law but withdrew upon discovering it wasn’t his true passion.
Q13. Who played the role of J. Robert Oppenheimer?
Ans. That part was portrayed by Cillian an actor from Ireland.
Q14. What is Cillian Murphy’s favorite book?
Ans. James Joyce’s A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man.
Q15. Has Cillian Murphy won any major awards?
Ans. He has received nominations for both Golden Globes and BAFTAs but has not claimed victory yet.
Q16. What inspired Cillian Murphy to act?
Ans. His passion for acting was ignited after viewing a stage adaptation of A Clockwork Orange.
Q17. What was Cillian Murphy’s first acting role?
Ans. His early acting engagement was in the 1996 play Disco Pigs.
Q18. How does Cillian prepare for his roles?
Ans. He is recognized for his method acting, frequently delving deeply into character research.
Q19. What was Cillian Murphy’s first acting role?
Ans. His first prominent acting role was in Disco Pigs in 1996, which he reprised in the film adaptation from 2001.
Q20. Did Cillian ever pursue a career in music?
Ans. Yes, during his late teens and early twenties, Murphy explored a musical career. He sang and played guitar in a band called The Sons of Mr. Green Genes, which drew inspiration from Frank Zappa.
Q21. Which prominent films has Murphy appeared in?
Ans. Cillian Murphy has featured in well-known films such as “Inception,” “28 Days Later,” “The Dark Knight Trilogy,” “Dunkirk,” and “Peaky Blinders.”
Q22. Is Cillian accent genuine in “Peaky Blinders?”
Ans. Yes, Cillian accent in “Peaky Blinders” is legitimate. He collaborated with a dialect coach to refine his Birmingham accent to portray Tommy Shelby effectively.
Q23. Does Cillian Murphy possess any secret skills?
Ans. Cillian Murphy is also skilled in music. He plays the guitar and has performed with his band, Sons of Mr. Green Genes.
Q24. What is Cillian method of acting?
Ans. Cillian is recognized for his deep commitment to acting. He immerses himself in his roles, conducting thorough research and infusing his performances with depth and nuance.
Q25. Has Cillian Murphy ever engaged in voice-over work?
Ans. Yes, Cillian has provided his voice for a variety of projects, including narration for documentaries and voice roles in animated films like “The Secret of Kells.”