9 Hollywood Stars Who Have the Luck of the Irish

Ireland is a beautiful land most notably known for its lush rolling hills, corn beef and cabbage, and tales of gold-chasing leprechauns. In Hollywood, Ireland is also known as the homeland of some of the industry’s finest performers. Here are some of our favorites who we salute this St. Patrick’s Day.

Born in Ballymena, North Ireland, Neeson originally had plans to become a teacher until he fell in love with the theater. Nominated for an Academy Award or his performance as Oscar Schindler in Steven Spielberg’s Oscar-winning film ‘Schindler’s List,’ Neeson has recently become Hollywood's go-to action hero.  

Born in Navan, Ireland, this suave actor has made a name for himself playing a slew of detectives, secret agents and lovers. He's best known for playing James Bond in four 007 movies. 

Born Maureen FitzSimons in Ranelagh, Ireland, Maureen was spotted by actor Charles Laughton, who cast her to appear with him in ‘Jamaica Inn’ as well as his next film, ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame.’ She received an Honorary Oscar at the 2015 Academy Awards.

Born in Connemara, Ireland, O'Toole has amassed quite the resume -- with his crowning achievement being cast to play T.E. Lawrence in David Lean's classic epic, 'Lawrence of Arabia.' 

Born in Limerick, Ireland, the two-time Oscar-nominated actor originally had his sights set on becoming a rugby player until a bout with tuberculosis changed everything. Known to millions of fans as Albus Dumledore from the ‘Harry Potter’ films, Richard’s long career had him sharing the screen with some of the biggest names in film, including Sean Connery, Harrison Ford and Clint Eastwood. 

This Dublin-born actor had his big break in 2000's war drama 'Tigerland,' which quickly put him on track to be the then-next big thing. He went on to score roles in 'Minority Report,' 'Phone Booth' and the much-maligned epic from Oliver Stone, 'Alexander.' Soon, he will next be seen in HBO's second season of 'True Detective.'

Cast by Irving Thalberg to play Jane in the ‘Tarzan’ films of the 30’s, the Boyle, Ireland-native went on to star in numerous movies, including ‘Hannah and Her Sisters,’ acting alongside her real-life daughter, actress Mia Farrow.  

The Belfast-born director of Disney's live-action 'Cinderella' and Marvel's 'Thor' established himself as an actor by bringing the works of Shakespeare to life. He is best known for adapting 'Henry V,' 'Hamlet' and 'Othello' for the big screen. 

Born in Dublin, Ireland, this Golden Globe winner initially had his sights set on becoming a priest, but it wasn’t until he started acting that he discovered his true calling. Byrne is best known for his role in the crime thriller 'The Usual Suspects.'