Michael D Higgins braved strong winds and rain to pay tribute to The Commitments actor Johnny Murphy in Drimnagh earlier today.
While umbrellas blew from side-to-side, Michael D declared he was "undefeated by the weather forecast."
The President and his wife Sabina unveiled a memorial bench for the actor who was best known for playing “Joey the Lips” in the classic movie.
Irish actors Patrick Bergin and Colm Meany also attended the event today along with The Commitments cast members Robert Arkins and Michael Ahern.
President Higgins said: “We are celebrating an actor and all of the acting profession and artists, as we come out of Covid they’ve done so much to keep our spirits up.
“He’s one of the very few people who scored a goal against all the critics, he got a wonderful reception that has lived on. There’s no doubt that in terms of all that contribution to the theatre and film, we should be grateful for the wonderful performances he gave us.
“In Drimnagh, Johnny Murphy is so important, it is here, he always called home. This is a great tribute to the people of Drimnagh, the culture and their lives that Johnny lived here all his life.”
The President said Murphy made a huge impact in his long and varied career in Irish theatre and film.
Even though he became a Hollywood actor, Johnny never forgot his roots. He always had a great love for Benmadigan Road and the community of Drimnagh throughout his life.
“Johnny remained in Drimnagh and remained an enthusiastic member of the Inchicore United Working Men's Club,” President Higgins continued.
“He will always remember Drimnagh as the first place he learned the meaning of the word community and experienced a sense of belonging.
“Benches are made for sitting and now Dubliners can join with Johnny in quiet reflection and meditation. Johnny remained true to his Drimnagh roots and Drimnagh has repaid the complement so proudly by claiming him as one of their own.
“We remember the life and work of Johnny Murphy, actor, performer, great resident of Drimnagh.
"We also recall the Johnny Murphy who walked the streets of Drimnagh as neighbour, friend and long-term resident that the people here hold in their hearts.”
Johnny Murphy died aged 72 in 2016 and starred in movies such as Angela’s Ashes and Into the West.
To get the latest breaking news straight to your inbox, sign up for our free newsletter.
