The Irish Film and Television industry is set to celebrate its finest at the upcoming Irish Film & Television Awards (IFTAs), often referred to as the 'Irish Oscars.' Scheduled for Friday, February 14th, this event will honor the remarkable achievements of Irish talent both in front of and behind the camera. Esteemed figures such as Cillian Murphy, Saoirse Ronan, and Ruth Negga are confirmed to attend, alongside a host of other notable stars from film and television. The awards recognize outstanding contributions through nominations like "Small Things Like These" and "Kneecap," leading with 17 nominations each. Additionally, veteran actor Colm Meaney will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Star-Studded Lineup Anticipates a Memorable Evening

This year's IFTA Awards promise an evening filled with glamour and recognition. A constellation of celebrated Irish actors and filmmakers will convene to celebrate their industry's accomplishments. Leading the charge are multiple award-winning performers such as Cillian Murphy, who has earned acclaim for his role in "Small Things Like These." Other luminaries include Saoirse Ronan, Ruth Negga, Andrew Scott, Alisha Weir, Chris O’Dowd, Caitríona Balfe, and Nicola Coughlan. Television favorites Sharon Horgan and the cast of "Say Nothing" will also grace the red carpet. This gathering underscores the depth and breadth of Irish creative talent, showcasing a vibrant community dedicated to excellence.

The event will feature a diverse array of participants, including established veterans and rising stars. Among those expected to attend are Liam Cunningham, Eva Birthistle, Victoria Smurfit, Clinton Liberty, Patrick Gibson, Alison Oliver, Deirdre O’Kane, Baz Ashmawy, Clare Dunne, Elaine Cassidy, Roisin Gallagher, and Brían F. O’Byrne. Also present will be Jim Sheridan, Barry Ward, Pat Shortt, Nora Jane Noone, Hilary Rose, broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan, Yasmin Seky, and Dónall Ó Héalai. The presence of these individuals highlights the richness of Irish cultural expression and the industry's commitment to honoring its heritage.

Honoring Excellence: Nominations and Lifetime Achievements

The 2025 IFTA Awards will highlight exceptional works in film and television through a series of competitive categories. Notably, "Small Things Like These" and "Kneecap" have garnered the most attention, each receiving 17 nominations. On the television side, "Say Nothing" and "Bad Sisters" have been recognized with ten and eight nominations respectively. These nominations reflect the high quality of Irish storytelling and production, underscoring the industry's growing global influence.

In addition to recognizing contemporary achievements, the IFTA Awards will pay tribute to a lifelong contribution to the arts. Veteran actor Colm Meaney will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his enduring impact on Irish cinema. His career, spanning decades, has left an indelible mark on both national and international screens. The ceremony will be broadcast on RTE One, ensuring that audiences across Ireland can share in this momentous occasion. Hosted by Kevin McGahern, the event will kick off with red carpet interviews conducted by TikTok star Eric Roberts, adding a modern twist to the traditional festivities.