After decades of stereotypical portrayals, Ireland has emerged as a cultural powerhouse, breaking free from outdated cliches. From actors captivating Hollywood to the rise of Irish designers and musicians, a “green wave” is reshaping pop culture and fashion.
Irish talent has taken center stage, with actors such as Paul Mescal, Cillian Murphy, and Saoirse Ronan receiving widespread acclaim. The success of Murphy, who became the first Irish-born man to win a Best Actor Oscar, highlights this cultural moment. A group of Irish actors dominating screens, including Colin Farrell, Andrew Scott, Nicola Coughlan, Barry Keoghan, and Jessie Buckley, has been affectionately dubbed the “Craic Pack.” Meanwhile, Mescal’s performances continue to draw immense attention, with ticket prices for his current stage run in Brooklyn soaring above face value.
In television, Sharon Horgan has built on her success with series like Motherland, Catastrophe, and Bad Sisters, now expanding her influence with upcoming adaptations for major streaming platforms. Eve Hewson, known for her acting, is also making waves in fashion, fronting a campaign for a renowned designer brand, while her brother Elijah leads the band Inhaler, selling out shows across the United States. Irish musicians continue to thrive, with Fontaines D.C. and CMAT earning critical recognition, and Belfast hip-hop trio Kneecap playing a role in the revival of the Irish language. This linguistic resurgence is evident beyond music, with Gaeilge recently spoken for the first time during prime minister’s questions and millions of global users learning the language online.
Fashion, too, is embracing Irish influence. Designer Jonathan Anderson, currently at the helm of a luxury fashion house and rumored to be a contender for a prestigious role at another, has created a viral collaboration celebrating Irish heritage. His T-shirts and jumpers feature vintage-inspired nods to the country’s iconic stout brand. Simone Rocha, known for designs infused with references to Irish folklore and traditions, continues to gain prominence, with her latest show featuring esteemed Irish actress Fiona Shaw. Róisín Pierce has brought Irish lacework into the modern fashion world, collaborating with an accessories brand to reinterpret traditional craftsmanship in leather goods. Dublin model Aimee Byrne recently earned a coveted opening spot on a high-profile Paris runway, while Pellador’s jerseys and knitwear, inspired by classic Irish sportswear, have become sought-after streetwear pieces.
Several factors are driving this renewed fascination with Irish culture. The country is perceived as a contrast to the societal and economic challenges faced by nations like the US and the UK. Post-Brexit, Irish citizenship applications from Britain have reached record levels, while interest from the US is also rising.
Beyond fashion and entertainment, Irish products are becoming cult favorites. A new wave of social media personalities has popularized Guinness-drinking challenges, even causing a temporary shortage of the stout in parts of the UK. Meanwhile, Irish butter has gained a reputation for its superior quality, with food enthusiasts praising it as a luxury staple.
For a nation known for its self-deprecating humor, this newfound global attention is significant. While some Irish commentators note that much of the interest is not deeply informed, it remains largely positive. Many see it as an opportunity to share Ireland’s rich history and cultural depth with a broader audience. Whether through literature, film, fashion, or food, Ireland’s influence continues to grow, marking a vibrant and authentic cultural moment.
