Saoirse Ronan’s father speaks of his pride in his daughter

Saoirse and Paul Ronan

Saoirse Ronan’s father revealed how proud he is of his famous daughter following her Oscar nomination.

Ronan was nominated for her starring role in Lady Bird but lost out to the Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri star Frances McDormand.

It was the third Oscar nomination of the 23-year-old’s career so far, following Atonement in 2008 and Brooklyn in 2016.

Saoirse and Paul Ronan

Saoirse’s father, Paul Ronan, has said that while he was disappointed she didn’t win, it was a blessing to be nominated – and graciously added that McDormand was a worthy winner.

He said: “I was a bit disappointed for Saoirse when she lost out to Frances, although losing is the wrong word to use.

“It’s her third Oscar nomination, and that to a lot of actors would be a dream come true. Each of the three times she was nominated a wonderful actress won so I would never say she was robbed or anything like that.

“She is blessed to be in such amazing company, and, hey, she’s only 23.”

Paul showed where Saoirse gets her level headedness from as he remained philosophical about the real reward for her superb performances.

He added: “The great thing about awards and being nominated is the potential work it brings. Actors love their job and the best award is more work, good work and experiences in a very competitive field.

“I’m proud of Saoirse for who she is, not for any award or her talent as an actor.”

Ronan went on to star in the title role in the 2018 historical drama Mary Queen of Scots, with Margot Robbie playing her cousin Queen Elizabeth.

Written by Michael Kehoe @michaelcalling