Thomas Patrick McKenna (1929-2011), known as T.P. McKenna, was a highly versatile Irish actor whose career spanned theatre, film, and television. Trained at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, he became a leading interpreter of the works of Irish playwrights such as Sean O'Casey, J.M. Synge, and Samuel Beckett. His talent led him to international success, earning him a Tony Award nomination in 1961 for his Broadway performance in Brendan Behan's *The Hostage*. On the big screen, he appeared in acclaimed films such as Sam Peckinpah's *Straw Dogs* (1971), as Major Scott, and *Ulysses* (1967). His prolific television work includes appearances in cult British series such as *Doctor Who* and *The Avengers*. Among his accolades are a Jacob's Award for Irish television and an honorary doctorate of letters conferred upon him by the University of Ulster, in recognition of his significant contribution to the dramatic arts.