'Absolute Irish legend' - Funeral details announced for Oscar winning actress Brenda Fricker

Brenda made history in 1990 when she became the first Irish woman to win an Academy Awardplaceholder image
Brenda made history in 1990 when she became the first Irish woman to win an Academy Award | File Photo

Brenda Fricker died peacefully on July 16 at the age of 81

The funeral of Oscar-winning Irish actress Brenda Fricker will take place in Dublin tomorrow, as family, friends and fans prepare to bid farewell to one of Ireland's most celebrated performers.

Ms Fricker, who died peacefully on July 16 at the age of 81 in the wonderful care of the staff in Our Lady's Hospice, Harold's Cross, will be remembered at a funeral service in St Catherine's Church on Meath Street at 11am on Thursday, August 6, followed by a private burial.

The Dublin-born actress became a household name both in Ireland and internationally during a career spanning more than six decades.

She made history in 1990 when she became the first Irish woman to win an Academy Award, receiving the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Christy Brown's mother, Bridget Fagan Brown, in My Left Foot.

To audiences around the world, Fricker was also known for memorable roles including Megan Roach in the BBC medical drama Casualty and the much-loved Pigeon Lady in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.

Following news of her death last month, tributes poured in from across Ireland and beyond. Director Jim Sheridan described her as a "force of nature", while fellow actress Fionnula Flanagan said her Oscar victory marked a pivotal moment for Irish cinema.

President Catherine Connolly also paid tribute, describing Ms Fricker as a trailblazer whose achievements helped inspire generations of Irish actors and contributed to the growth of Ireland's film industry.

Her death notice on RIP.ie says that Brenda, late of the Liberties and formerly of Dundrum, is lovingly remembered by her niece Billie, nephew Chimo, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, her close friend Liz, neighbours and a wide circle of friends in Ireland and around the world.

She was predeceased by her husband Barry, parents Bina and Desmond, and her sister, Grainne.

Livestream of the funeral can be watched here.

As mourners gather in Dublin tomorrow, many will reflect on the remarkable legacy of a performer whose talent, humour and authenticity made her one of Ireland's most cherished actresses.

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