Brendan Gleeson

Brendan Gleeson (born March 29, 1955, in Dublin, Ireland) is a celebrated Irish actor and occasional director whose work spans blockbuster franchises, prestige drama, and character-driven indie cinema. Widely regarded as one of Ireland’s finest screen performers, he has earned major industry recognition across Irish, British, and American awards, and has been repeatedly honored for the depth and authority he brings to every role.

Many viewers know Gleeson best as Alastor “Mad-Eye” Moody in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. His filmography also includes standout turns in Braveheart (as Hamish Campbell), 28 Days Later (as Frank), Mission: Impossible II (as McCloy), Breakfast on Pluto, Kingdom of Heaven, and Troy (as Menelaos), showcasing his range from warm-hearted mentors to formidable antagonists.

On television, he won a Primetime Emmy for portraying Winston Churchill in Into the Storm, and later drew further acclaim for roles such as Donald Trump in The Comey Rule. In recent years, his work in films like The Banshees of Inisherin has reinforced his status as an awards-season mainstay.

Gleeson is also the father of actors Domhnall Gleeson and Brian Gleeson, making the Gleesons one of Ireland’s most notable acting families.