**Brendan Gleeson** (Dublin, 1955) is an Irish actor known for his prolific and acclaimed film career, which began significantly after he turned 30.

Gleeson excels at bringing complex characters to life, often rugged and seemingly gruff, but endowed with a deep humanity, vulnerability, or a touch of dark humor. His versatility has allowed him to range across genres, from historical drama to black comedy.

He has distinguished himself in memorable supporting roles such as Hamish in *Braveheart* (1995) and Michael Collins in the film of the same name (1996). He has achieved critical acclaim for his collaborations with director Martin McDonagh, particularly in In Bruges (2008) and the recent The Banshees of Inisherin (2022), which earned him an Oscar nomination. Other notable roles include *The Guard* (2011) and *Calvary* (2014), where he demonstrated his ability to bring intense gravitas to his performances. Gleeson is appreciated for his imposing stage presence and his ability to blend strength and subtlety.