Patrick Duffy has said that standing next to President Michael D Higgins at today's parade was a true honour.
The actor, best known for playing Bobby Ewing in the 1980s soap opera 'Dallas', is Ireland's International Guest of Honour for the St Patrick's Day parade. The 74-year-old is also celebrating his birthday today and was presented with an extravagant green cake ahead of the celebrations.
Patrick, whose grandfather emigrated from Ireland to the US in the 1920s, said that he was most looking forward to being in the open car and seeing people travel far and wide for the big day. He also said it was a huge honour to get to meet President Michael D Higgins through the celebrations.
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Patrick told Dublin Live: "I can’t wait to be able to relate to the people on the street who have come from all over the world to participate in this parade. It's a truly great celebration of my birthday."
The actor also commented on his hiatus and eventual return to 'Dallas' during the show's run and paid tribute to his late co-star Larry Hagman. Larry played Patrick's onscreen brother J.R in the hit television show, with the two having shared a close bond behind the scenes.
Patrick added: "The benefit and great honour was that they wanted me back after I left. Larry Hagman was my best friend and I got to work with him again for five more years. It was a perfect return.”
The actor, who released the song 'Together We're Strong' in 1982, admitted he wouldn't be singing during his time in Ireland. However, he said he would raise a pint in solidarity with all the performers over St Patrick's weekend.
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