Cillian Murphy Pays Homage to Roy Keane Despite Oscar Win

In a heartfelt tribute to his fellow Cork native, Cillian Murphy, fresh off his Oscar win for Best Actor in “Oppenheimer,” has affirmed that Roy Keane remains the pride of their shared hometown.

The Hollywood star, known for his roles in “Peaky Blinders” and Christopher Nolan’s cinematic masterpieces, graciously acknowledged Keane’s enduring status as Cork’s “number one.”

The 47-year-old Murphy, who clinched the Academy Award in a stellar performance, lauded Keane’s legendary career trajectory, underscoring the former footballer’s immense influence.

Both born in Cork, Ireland, Murphy and Keane share a deep-rooted connection to their hometown, with the actor expressing unwavering admiration for the football icon.

Reflecting on his hometown’s celebrity status, Murphy humorously deflected the spotlight onto Keane, stating, “I mean, to me, no one will be more famous than Roy Keane coming out of Cork.” Emphasizing Keane’s enduring legacy, Murphy affirmed, “He’s always number one for me.”

Keane, renowned for his illustrious football career, began his journey at Cork-based club Cobh Ramblers before ascending to global prominence with Nottingham Forest and Manchester United.

Captaining the Red Devils to numerous Premier League titles, FA Cups, and a Champions League triumph, Keane etched his name in footballing folklore.

Despite Murphy’s adulation for Keane, the actor’s sporting allegiances are notably divided. Invited to Anfield in 2020, Murphy has purportedly embraced Liverpool fandom, earning accolades from none other than Liverpool’s defensive stalwart, Virgil van Dijk.

In an acknowledgement of Murphy’s celebrity status, Van Dijk hailed the actor as the most renowned figure in his contacts book.

Keane’s unparalleled contribution to Irish football is undisputed, with the former midfielder earning 67 caps for his country.

Beyond his on-field exploits, Keane’s transition into punditry, particularly with Sky Sports, has further solidified his status as a revered figure in the footballing realm.

Despite their differing career paths, Murphy and Keane stand as a testament to Cork’s rich cultural tapestry, each leaving an indelible mark on their respective fields.

Murphy’s triumphant Oscar win serves as a testament to his acting prowess, while Keane’s enduring legacy resonates both on and off the pitch.

As Cork continues to bask in the glory of its illustrious sons, the bond between Murphy and Keane exemplifies the spirit of camaraderie and mutual admiration that defines their shared heritage.

While Murphy may have clinched Hollywood’s highest honour, his reverence for Keane underscores the profound impact of hometown pride and the enduring legacy of Cork’s finest.

In the annals of Cork’s illustrious history, the names of Cillian Murphy and Roy Keane will forever stand as beacons of inspiration, symbolizing the resilience, talent, and unwavering spirit of the Emerald Isle.

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members