Daryl McCormack: Irish Star’s Remarkable Rise from Peaky Blinders to Hollywood Leading Man
Introduction: A Rising Star in Global Cinema
Daryl McCormack’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. The Irish actor has steadily climbed the ranks of Hollywood, transforming from supporting player to leading man in some of the industry’s most anticipated projects. His portrayal of the title role in the sex comedy-drama Good Luck to You, Leo Grande (2022) earned him a nomination for the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. As McCormack prepares for two major Netflix releases, his journey represents a testament to talent, perseverance, and strategic career choices that have positioned him as one of the most exciting actors of his generation.
From Peaky Blinders to Knives Out: McCormack’s Career Evolution
The Irish actor, well-regarded for his role as Isaiah Jesus in the acclaimed series Peaky Blinders, had built a solid foundation with various projects, including A Very English Scandal and the comedy thriller Pixie. His breakthrough came with the 2022 dramedy Good Luck to You, Leo Grande, where he starred opposite Emma Thompson as a male sex worker. This challenging role thrust McCormack into the limelight, marking the most significant turning point in his career.
His latest venture brings him to Rian Johnson’s highly anticipated third installment of the Knives Out franchise, titled Wake Up Dead Man, set to premiere on Netflix on December 12. In this new mystery, Daniel Craig reprises his role as the detective Benoit Blanc, and McCormack plays Cy, a former politician turned YouTuber. McCormack described Cy as someone who utilizes faith as a “vehicle to move forward into a place of influence and power.”
Tackling Classic Literature: Pride and Prejudice Reimagined
Beyond the star-studded murder mystery, McCormack has secured another prestigious role. McCormack recently wrapped filming for a fresh adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, penned by Dolly Alderton, where he takes on the role of Mr. Bingley. “When I got the call about playing Mr. Bingley, I thought, you know what, I should read the novel and take my inspiration from the book,” he says. He shared how he has deliberately avoided watching previous adaptations to carve his interpretation without outside influences, emphasizing kindness as a cornerstone of his character.
Looking Ahead: A Multifaceted Creative Future
McCormack is eager not just to act but to expand his creative horizons by exploring writing and producing. He is currently collaborating on a limited series focused on the journey of a young man grappling with societal expectations and personal aspirations. In 2023, he won the Trophée Chopard from the Cannes Film Festival.
For audiences and industry insiders alike, Daryl McCormack represents a new generation of actors who combine technical skill with authentic storytelling. With two major Netflix projects poised to reach global audiences, McCormack’s star continues its upward trajectory, promising more compelling performances and creative ventures in the years ahead.