What's Happening?
The Irish Film & Television Awards 2026 celebrated notable achievements in film and television during a ceremony in Dublin. The coming-of-age drama 'Christy' emerged as a significant winner, securing the best film award along with three other honors. Directed by Brendan Canty, 'Christy' tells the story of a young man in foster care. The film led the nominations with 14 nods. 'Hamnet' was recognized as the best international film, winning in three additional categories. The awards also highlighted performances by actors such as Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, and Leonardo DiCaprio. In the television categories, 'Blue Lights' was awarded the best drama series. The event was hosted by comedian and actor Kevin McGahern, and Ciarán Hinds received the Irish Academy
Award for Lifetime Achievement for his contributions to the screen industry over 50 years.
Why It's Important?
The Irish Film & Television Awards serve as a platform to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Irish and international filmmakers and actors. The success of films like 'Christy' and 'Hamnet' underscores the growing influence and quality of Irish cinema on the global stage. These awards not only highlight individual talents but also promote the Irish film industry, potentially attracting more international collaborations and investments. The recognition of international films and actors, such as Leonardo DiCaprio, further bridges the gap between Irish cinema and Hollywood, fostering a more interconnected global film community.









