Jessie Buckley's historic Oscar win for best actress has ignited joy across Ireland, with politicians and artists praising the Kerry-born actor's achievement. The 36-year-old won for her role as Agnes Hathaway in Chloé Zhao's film adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's novel Hamnet. As St Patrick's Day approaches, reports indicate thousands of Buckley masks are being printed for parades.
Irish President Catherine Connolly called the win a 'historic moment', while Taoiseach Micheál Martin hailed it as 'a wonderful night for Irish film'. Tánaiste Simon Harris congratulated Buckley, noting she is the first Irish woman to win the best actress Oscar. Brenda Fricker previously won best supporting actress in 1990.
In her hometown of Killarney, family and friends stayed up to watch the ceremony. Uncle Sean Buckley said the family's love was unconditional, regardless of the outcome. From the stage, Buckley thanked her parents for teaching her to 'dream and never be defined by expectation'.
Brother Killian Buckley recalled childhood plays staged for their parents, adding that Jessie remains grounded. Cousin Róisín Buckley described her as 'the most open person' and praised her natural acting. Buckley's win, alongside Richard Baneham's visual effects Oscar, marks a proud moment for Irish cinema.
