At the ceremony, Mayor Geoghegan expressed his pride, saying, “It’s remarkable that it took this long to honor one of Ranelagh’s most famous residents, Maureen O’Hara. As someone who grew up just a short distance from Beechwood Avenue, it is a great privilege for me to unveil this plaque today.”

He also noted, ”Many locals still fondly remember when Maureen opened the Ranelagh Arts Festival in 2010, which was a truly special occasion.

While Ireland is currently having a notable moment in Hollywood, Maureen O’Hara was a trailblazer, achieving remarkable success on the silver screen at a time when it was rare for Irish actors.”



Dr. Ruth Barton, a film studies professor at Trinity College Dublin, spoke about O’Hara’s significance as a pioneering woman in cinema and her enduring influence in the film industry.

Born in 1920 as Maureen FitzSimons, O’Hara became one of the most beloved actresses of her time, starring in iconic films such as The Quiet Man, Miracle on 34th Street, and How Green Was My Valley. The latter won the Academy Award for Best Picture and marked the beginning of a 20-year collaboration between O’Hara and director John Ford, spanning five films.

Known for her striking red hair, fierce independence, and memorable performances, O’Hara made a lasting impact on both Irish and global cinema.

The plaque unveiling at O’Hara’s former home in Ranelagh, where she spent her early years before rising to Hollywood fame, is part of Dublin City Council’s initiative to celebrate notable Dubliners who have contributed to the city’s rich cultural and historical legacy.

The decision to Install the plaque was made by the Dublin City Council Commemorations and Naming Committee, following a proposal by Councillor Dermot Lacey, Chairperson of the South East Area Committee.