Author's Note: In honor of St. Patrick's Day, I chose to write a biography about an Irish actor.
"Being an actor is the easiest job. Just say the lines."
This Irish actor was discovered by Hubbard Casting at a pool hall. The casting agency recommended him to try out for a part in an upcoming film. After three days of auditioning, he wasn't chosen for the role. However he got the attention of an advertising agency who recruited him to be in an ad for Knorr soup. When producers of a movie noticed him in the ad, they asked him to audition for a small part in the movie.
A Striving Start
Jonathan Michael Francis O'Keefe was born on July 27th, 1977 in Dublin, Ireland. His debut was playing "First Young Man" in the 1994 movie 'A Man of No Importance'. However his breakthrough role was starring in the flick The Disappearance of Finbar (1998). As Jonathan was gaining recognition, he took his mother's maiden name of 'Meyers' and became known as Jonathan Rhys Meyers.
A Fierce Family
"I think it is important to stay close to your roots and be true to yourself, be honest."
When Jonathan was only three years-old, his father abandoned his family. Jonathan's mother Geraldine was forced to care for Jonny and his 3 little brothers. While growing up, Jonathan sometimes lived in an orphanage. Jonathan immensely admires his mother for her continuous dedication to her family and support towards Jonathan's career. Sadly, on November 21, 2007 tragedy struck the Meyers family when Geraldine Meyers passed away at the age 50 of a sudden illness.
Multi-Talented Musician
Jonathan is an accomplished singer and musician. His vocals can be heard on the soundtrack for his movie Velvet Goldmine (1998). Jonathan has also played Elvis Presley several times throughout his career.
Awards & Accomplishments
During his career, Jonathan has been nominated for seven awards. He won four of these awards: a Chopard Trophy (Cannes Film Festival), Golden Globe, IFTA Award (Irish Film and Television Awards), and the Satellite Award.
A Promising Career
"I've never gone to acting school and I never will, so I'm learning about the business from the people who are in the business."
At the age of 16, Jonathan was expelled from school and has never attended an acting school. I was surprised when I learned this, because Jonathan Rhys Meyers is a gifted, talented actor. On November 18, 2007 Jonathan was arrested at the Dublin airport because he was drunk in public and disturbed the peace. Since Jonathan's mother died a few days after the arrest, there is a lot of controversy surrounding this mishap. Many people suspect since Jonathan arrived at Dublin to see his sick mother, he was drunk out of depression. But if Jonathan stays away from trouble and the negativity of the press, he will have a rewarding career.
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