The Irish Film & Television Academy (IFTA) has unveiled the nominees for its prestigious Rising Star Award for 2025, spotlighting four promising talents as the film and television industry gears up for the annual awards ceremony.
The announcement came as the Academy prepares for the IFTA Awards ceremony, set to take place on February 14, 2025, at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre. The nominees for this year’s award are:
- Anthony Boyle - Actor known for his roles in Say Nothing, Masters of the Air, House of Guinness, and Manhunt.
- Aislinn Clarke - Writer and director recognized for her work on Fréwaka, The Devil’s Doorway, and Eye Exam.
- Clinton Liberty - Actor featured in House of the Dragon, Holding, Red Election, and Normal People.
- Alisha Weir - Actress celebrated for her performances in Abigail, Wicked Little Letters, and Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical.
This year's nominees were selected by a special jury convened by the Academy, which emphasized the growth of local talent making their influence felt on the global stage. Áine Moriarty, Chief Executive of IFTA, expressed her congratulations to the nominees, stating, "Our sincere congratulations to the 2025 IFTA Rising Star Award nominees announced today. Screen Ireland is proud to sponsor this award as part of the agency’s work supporting new and established talent across the industry, and we look forward to seeing each of the nominees’ work as they move to the next stage of their careers."
Moriarty also highlighted the significance of the Rising Star Award, noting, "These four hugely talented Rising Stars represent the new wave of Irish professionals who are leading our homegrown industry on the world stage. This prestigious Award has recognized many great Irish talents at this early stage, and we hope this recognition will bolster the careers of these four skillful artists, spotlighting the next phase of their creative journeys internationally. Congratulations to each of them."
The Rising Star Award has previously honored illustrious talents, including actors like Saoirse Ronan, Michael Fassbender, and Jamie Dornan, among others. This accolade is aimed at encouraging the up-and-coming stars of Irish film and television who are positioned to make significant contributions to the industry.
The IFTA Awards night is not just about recognizing the industry’s best; it’s also about celebrating the future of film and television talent who are paving the way forward. The ceremony serves as a platform to showcase the richness of Irish storytelling and creative prowess.
The event will be broadcasted widely, drawing attention to the nominees and their contributions, and emphasizing how important it is to celebrate local talents who are making strides both at home and abroad. With the stage set for the big night, anticipation builds to see who will take home the coveted Rising Star Award.
Fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see the nominations and await the announcement of the winner, which is another step closer to recognizing the talents shaping the cinematic and television landscapes. The IFTA Awards not only hold significance for the nominees but also stand as a reminder of the vibrant and dynamic nature of the Irish film and television industry.
Mark your calendars for February 14, as the Irish Film & Television Academy prepares for a night of celebration and recognition of the remarkable achievements and potential of its artists.