Throughout his esteemed career, Irish actor Cillian Murphy has earned numerous awards and accolades, showcasing his talent in both film and television. Despite his Hollywood success, Murphy remains deeply committed to his family, particularly his wife, Yvonne McGuinness.
Murphy, a dedicated family man, chose to live in London with McGuinness instead of moving to Los Angeles. In 2005, after his breakthrough role in “28 Days Later,” he emphasized the importance of staying close to his loved ones, stating, “I don’t need to live in Los Angeles. I’d be tremendously far away from my family. I’d never see them. I love living in London.” This decision was evident when he accepted a role in “The Wind That Shakes the Barley,” allowing him to stay home in Cork, Ireland, with his pregnant wife.
During McGuinness’s pregnancy with their first child, they stayed with Murphy’s parents, providing a supportive family environment. Murphy fondly recalled, “I was living at home with my folks; my wife was pregnant with our son; and we were running around the hills of west Cork shooting up Black and Tans. Fantastic!” By 2015, the couple, now parents to two boys, Malachy and Aran, moved back to Ireland, desiring their children to grow up near their grandparents and the sea.
Murphy explained, “We wanted them to be Irish, I suppose.” When he was away filming, McGuinness took care of the children but also contributed to his work. For instance, she suggested adapting Claire Keegan’s novella “Small Things” into a movie, which Murphy initially dismissed but later pursued, leading to the successful production of “Small Things Like These” with Matt Damon and Ben Affleck’s support.
Murphy and McGuinness met during his early acting days with his first movie, “Disco Pigs.” Reflecting on that time, Murphy said, “It was so exciting, 20 years ago or whatever it was – we were all just kids, trying to find our way – but such a special, special time.”
While Murphy has been dubbed the “Internet’s Boyfriend,” public opinions on McGuinness vary. Some have criticized her looks, while others appreciate her natural beauty and the normalcy she brings to their relationship. Murphy’s loyalty and down-to-earth nature have earned praise, with fans admiring their enduring bond.
McGuinness, a talented visual artist, maintains a private life, including a private Instagram profile. The couple made a rare public appearance at the 81st Golden Globe Awards in January 2024. Murphy, unaware of his “Internet’s Boyfriend” label, responded modestly, “It’s lovely. It’s very flattering.”
Murphy’s recent accolades include a BAFTA award for Best Actor for his role in “Oppenheimer,” where he thanked his wife and sons, calling them his “best friends.” He continued to honor his family at the Screen Actors Guild Awards and the Golden Globes, expressing his gratitude for their support.
In interviews, Murphy has emphasized the importance of his family’s role in his life, describing his wife and children as his island of comfort and peace. He acknowledged the challenges of balancing work and family, crediting McGuinness for her unwavering support.
Cillian Murphy and Yvonne McGuinness have maintained a strong and private relationship for nearly two decades, supporting each other through their respective careers and raising their two sons to embrace their Irish heritage.