In a striking testament to her monumental impact on contemporary culture, acclaimed novelist Sally Rooney has been crowned the most admired Irish person in the United Kingdom. The findings, revealed in a comprehensive new study by leading market researcher Ipsos, position the Normal People author ahead of a host of legendary figures from the worlds of sport, entertainment, and politics.
The survey, which quizzed a representative sample of the British public, bestowed upon Rooney the unofficial but resonant title of the 'Irish Madonna'. This comparison draws a parallel to the iconic American singer, suggesting a similar level of enduring fame and an ability to continually reinvent and captivate the public consciousness across decades.
A New Literary Titan Amongst Giants
Rooney's ascent to the top of the list sees her surpassing an impressive roster of Irish icons. The poll ranked U2 frontman Bono in second place, followed by the late talk show host and comedian Graham Norton. The top five was rounded out by Liam Neeson and Michael D. Higgins, the President of Ireland, illustrating the diverse fields from which the public draws its admiration.
This result is particularly notable given Rooney's relatively recent rise to fame compared to the long-standing careers of her fellow list-toppers. Her sharp, millennial-focused narratives in novels like Conversations with Friends and the phenomenally successful Normal People—which was adapted into a hit BBC television series—have clearly cemented her status as a defining voice of a generation.
Defining the 'Irish Madonna' Phenomenon
The 'Madonna' moniker, as explained by Ipsos, is awarded to an individual who is not merely famous but possesses a rare, evolving, and sustained cultural relevance. Much like the singer Madonna, who has maintained her superstar status since the 1980s through constant innovation, a figure deemed an 'Irish Madonna' is seen as having the depth and versatility to remain a significant public figure for years to come.
Ipsos UK stated, "The term is used to describe someone who has achieved a very high level of fame, who manages to stay relevant over a long period of time, and who is known for reinventing themselves." Sally Rooney's rapid and profound embedding into the fabric of UK cultural life suggests she has all the hallmarks of such an icon.
The poll serves as a powerful indicator of how literature and its modern ambassadors can resonate just as deeply with the public as traditional celebrities from music, film, or sport, marking a significant moment for literary influence in the UK.
