Liam Cunningham

"The best kind of art or writing holds up a mirror to society." After leaving school at 15, he worked as an electrician, including a stint in Zimbabwe, before returning to Ireland and enrolling in acting classes. His passion for performance led him to the Royal Shakespeare Company and eventually to the screen. Cunningham's filmography is marked by versatility. He gained international recognition as Davos Seaworth in HBO's "Game of Thrones" (2012–2019), a role that showcased his ability to imbue fantasy with grounded humanity. His performances in films like "Hunger" (2008), where he shared a BAFTA for Best Short Film with Michael Fassbender for "Pitch Black Heist," and "The Wind That Shakes the Barley" (2006) demonstrate his commitment to stories that explore political and social complexities. His acting style is characterized by a quiet intensity and a capacity to convey profound emotion with subtlety. His portrayal of Father Moran in "Hunger" includes a 17-minute single-shot scene, exemplifying his skill in sustaining tension and engagement. Beyond the screen, Cunningham is known for his advocacy on issues of injustice, drawing from his working-class roots and personal experiences. With multiple Irish Film & Television Awards and nominations from the London Film Critics' Circle and British Independent Film Awards, Cunningham's contributions to film and television resonate both within the industry and among audiences.