Rhys Meyers’ Late Late Show Return: Viewers Unite

Jonathan Rhys Meyers Shines on Late Late Show, Praised for Artistic Insights and Resilience

Irish actor Jonathan Rhys Meyers has captured the attention and admiration of viewers following his appearance on the St. Patrick’s Day special of The Late Late Show. The acclaimed performer, known for his compelling portrayals in productions like “The Tudors” and the miniseries “Elvis,” recently returned to his native Ireland after facing the devastating loss of his home in the Los Angeles wildfires. Now settled on a farm in County Wexford, Meyers shared his thoughts on the burgeoning talent emerging from Ireland, sparking a wave of positive feedback from the public.

During his conversation with host Patrick Kielty on the March 13 episode, Meyers didn’t shy away from discussing his personal journey, including his relocation back to Ireland. He used the platform to highlight the impressive calibre of contemporary Irish artists, spanning both the silver screen and the music scene. He specifically mentioned actors like Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley, alongside musical acts such as Kneecap and CMAT, as examples of Ireland’s significant artistic output. Meyers articulated a profound sense of pride in his country’s creative prowess, stating that despite its size, Ireland consistently “punches above its weight” in the global arts landscape.

A Generational Leap in Irish Creativity

Rhys Meyers expressed his ongoing commitment to his craft, viewing his past roles as valuable preparation for future endeavours. However, he admitted to being particularly captivated by the current wave of young Irish talent. “I’m always in the learning process as an actor,” he shared with Kielty. “I feel like everything that I’ve done before is in preparation for what I may do in the future.”

He continued, elaborating on his admiration for the emerging generation:

• “But I watch all of the young Irish performers coming up, and I’m astounded at the level of creativity. I’m astounded by the level of confidence — what a confident country. We’re a small island, but we punch so high above our weight, from an artistic and literary point of view, and from a performance point of view.”

The actor further characterised these young entertainers as possessing remarkable determination and a powerful will. He described their talent as a gift that Ireland is willing to share with the world, albeit with a touch of playful reluctance. “They’re determined. They’ve got such will. It’s a gift that we’re willing to give to the world. We don’t give it freely,” he quipped, before adding with a smile, “But we give it generously.”

Public Acclaim and Support for a Beloved Actor

The sight of Jonathan Rhys Meyers back on television screens resonated deeply with many viewers, who took to social media to express their delight. Comments flooded in, with many echoing the sentiment that the actor “needs him back on our screens acting.”

The public’s response highlighted a strong sense of empathy and admiration for Meyers:

• “Hope that he’s doing well. Loved him,” one viewer wrote, reflecting a common sentiment of care for the actor’s well-being.
• Another commenter praised his acting abilities and resilience, stating, “What a marvellous actor, who has come through so much.” They added, “Was one of the best looking men. I hope he stays healthy.”
• A further message underscored his considerable talent and the public’s perception of his underappreciation: “An extremely talented Irish actor who doesn’t get enough credit. I hate when people are overshadowed by addiction or past mistakes. We are all human. He has done fantastic work.”

Earlier this year, at the Irish Film & Television Awards (IFTAs), Meyers had disclosed his return to Ireland following the loss of his Los Angeles residence in the wildfires. Despite the upheaval, he maintained a lighthearted perspective on his career prospects, even as he adjusts to his new life on the farm.

“It’s a farm, but I don’t farm anything,” he explained, humouring the idea of agricultural pursuits. “I think you have to be born into farming to get it right. I have some horses, and I basically let them run around on the farm.” This candid and engaging appearance has clearly endeared him further to the Irish public, who are eager to see him thrive both personally and professionally.