Funeral of Irish actress Brenda Fricker takes place in Dublin

The funeral of celebrated Irish actress Brenda Fricker took place in Dublin on Thursday, as her family and friends gathered to honor her legacy. Fricker, who won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 1990 for her role in My Left Foot, was the first Irish woman to receive the prestigious award. She passed away last month at the age of 81.

The funeral mass was held at St Catherine's Church on Meath Street at 11:00 local time, followed by a private burial. Crowds of locals gathered outside the church, clapping as Fricker's hearse made its way down the street. Monsignor Eoin Thynne, the church's rector, described Fricker as a "Liberty belle at heart," reflecting the place in Dublin where she resided.

Fricker was known for her roles in various films and television shows, including her iconic portrayal of nurse Megan Roach in BBC's Casualty from 1986 until her final appearance in 2010. She also played the Central Park pigeon lady in the 1992 Home Alone sequel. Her memorable roles also included those in So I Married An Axe Murderer, Angels In The Outfield, A Time To Kill, and Veronica Guerin.

Among the mourners were fellow Irish actor Brendan Gleeson, who starred alongside Fricker in My Left Foot, musician Frankie Gavin, TV presenter Ray D'Arcy, and director Jim Sheridan, who was Oscar-nominated for co-writing and directing the film. Monsignor Thynne highlighted Fricker's kindness and generosity, describing her as someone who "shot from the hip" and lived her life with authenticity.

He emphasized that Fricker's greatest gift was her ability to bring out the best in people, a testament to her remarkable character.