It’s a well-known fact that if a person achieves global fame in the world of art, entertainment, politics or sport then there is a very good chance that they have some remote link to our glorious, wet rock in the North Atlantic. If any sort of a link can be established, regardless of how remote, then we own that individual and we can rightfully expect them to publicly attribute their greatness to the Irish blood in their veins, appear on The Late Late Show and ultimately lead the St Patrick’s Day parade down O’Connell Street.
You may not be aware of this, but funnyman actor Will Ferrell is rightfully ours and has deep Irish roots. Ferrell first established himself in the late 1990s as a cast member on the NBC sketch show Saturday Night Live. From there the Irish-American went on to become the star of hit comedies such as Anchorman, Old School and Semi-Pro and has made numerous trips to Ireland with his brother, Patrick, and father, Roylee, to retrace the origin of their descendents in County Longford.
Ferrell is an Anglicized form of the Old Gaelic O Fearghail. This great surname originated in Longford and their chief known as Lord of Annaly resided at Longphuirt Ui Fearghaill (i.e. O’Farrell’s fortress) from which the name of the county derives. So important was the surname that much space is accorded to them in the “Annals of the Four Masters”.
Just as an aside, Ferrell is not directly related to our other favourite son, Colin Farrell. Although it is highly likely they have partied together on many occasions.
James Joyce award
Back in 2008 Ferrell was awarded the James Joyce award and addressed students at UCD’s Literary and Historical Society meeting wearing the entire Ireland rugby kit.
“I’m so committed to my Irish roots that I intend to continue wearing this outfit upon my return to the United States,†Ferrell told his audience. “I will also continue to drive on the left-hand side of the road. Will it be dangerous? Yes. Is it illegal? Highly. But that’s just how committed I am.â€
Ferrell also offered observations on pub life and Ireland’s national tipple during a 40-minute speech.
“I love the taste of Guinness on the back of your throat, when it repeats on you the next morning,†he said. “I love sitting in a cozy pub talking with a local, whose accent is so thick it sounds like he’s gargling phlegm.â€
In the words of his iconic character Ron Burgundy; “Stay classy….Ireland?”
William Nestor
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