Jessie Buckley and Richard Baneham Win Oscars, Hailed as National Heroes in Ireland

Ireland is celebrating a historic night at the 98th Academy Awards, with Jessie Buckley taking home the Best Actress award for her performance in “Hamnet” and Richard Baneham winning for Best Visual Effects on “Avatar: Fire and Ash.” Both were lauded by President Catherine Connolly as the country marked a significant moment for Irish film and the performing arts.

A Historic Win for Jessie Buckley

Jessie Buckley’s win marks a first for Ireland, as she is the first Irish woman to receive an Oscar in the Best Actress category. President Connolly described the award as “an historic moment,” adding that it was “a thoroughly deserved testament not only to Jessie’s outstanding performance in ‘Hamnet,’ but to her performances both in film and on stage across her career to date.” President Connolly’s office released a statement on Monday morning celebrating Buckley’s achievement.

Buckley, visibly moved during her acceptance speech, dedicated the award “to the beautiful chaos of a mother’s heart,” acknowledging the timing of the win coinciding with Mother’s Day in the U.K. She also spoke of her family’s support, noting that “Ireland bought them flights” to attend the ceremony. Variety reported on the outpouring of support from Buckley’s community in Kerry and beyond.

Richard Baneham’s Continued Success

Richard Baneham’s Oscar win for Best Visual Effects on “Avatar: Fire and Ash” represents his third Academy Award, following previous wins in 2009 and 2023. President Connolly recognized this as “a truly remarkable achievement” and highlighted his standing as “one of the outstanding technicians in his field.” The President’s statement emphasized the significance of Baneham’s continued success in the industry.

National Celebration and Industry Recognition

The wins were met with widespread praise from Irish leaders, including Prime Minister Micheál Martin, who congratulated both Buckley and Baneham on social media, calling it “a wonderful night for Irish film and the performing arts.” As reported by Variety, the success has sparked national celebration.

President Connolly also extended congratulations to other Irish nominees, including Maggie O’Farrell, John Kelly, Ed Guiney, and Andrew Lowe, as well as all those involved with Element Pictures and Wild Atlantic Pictures. She lauded the talent within the Irish film industry and acknowledged the contributions of Screen Ireland and the wider acting community. The full statement underscores the importance of continued support for the arts in Ireland.