You can find a bit of Ireland everywhere, especially when it comes to family history.
The Great Irish Famine caused a mass emigration from Ireland. However, even before and after, people left to start a new life in other countries.
As a result, Irish heritage can now be found in every corner of the globe. We’re looking at ten famous people who can proudly claim Irish roots – and they will surprise you.
10. Meryl Streep – roots in the northwest of Ireland
An icon is kicking off the list: Meryl Streep herself. The Oscar-winning actress can trace her roots back to Co. Donegal. Her great-great-grandparents were from there and then immigrated to the United States in 1864.
9. Muhammad Ali – a legend with ties to Co. Clare
You might not know Abe Grady. He left Ennis in Co. Clare in the 1860s and settled in Kentucky, where he married and started a family. One of their daughters was the mother of Muhammad Ali – and that name certainly rings a bell.
8. Bruce Springsteen – born in the USA, but with Irish roots
Famous for singing about the American working class, The Boss can also trace his family’s roots back to Ireland. His great-great-grandmother on his father’s side emigrated from Co. Westmeath. So yes, born in the USA, but with Irish blood.
7. Elvis Presley – the King
Would you have considered Co. Wicklow the home of Elvis Presley? No? Well, it is. Sort of. His ancestral home. Elvis’ great-great-great-great-grandfather was from there. He emigrated in 1775 and settled down in Louisiana.
6. Robert De Niro – Italian-Irish ancestry
You probably connect Robert De Niro’s name with his Italian heritage, but three out of his four grandparents had Irish ancestry. Is it too bold if we start calling him Robert O’Niro? It does have a ring to it, don’t you think?
5. Walt Disney – from Ireland to the big screen
We all know the Disney films well. What’s not so well-known is his Irish ancestry. Walt Disney’s great-grandfather was born in Co. Kilkenny before emigrating and settling in Canada. Should the next Disney movie be about Ireland?
4. John Travolta – grew up in an Irish household
Kenmare is worth a stop on your Ring of Kerry tour (and it’s cheaper than Killarney). That’s not all, though. This is where the Travolta family’s Irish roots began. His great-grandfather was from there.
3. Christina Aguilera – Ecuadorian-Irish
With one of the most recognisable voices in pop history, Christina Aguilera is another superstar with Irish roots. Her maternal grandmother is from Co. Clare. Christina grew up in Irish-American communities and says she’s proud of her Irish roots.
2. Duke of Wellington – born in Ireland
Despite being one of Britain’s most famous military figures, the Duke of Wellington is not known for his Irish lineage, but for defeating Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo. However, he was born right here in Dublin.
1. Kurt Cobain – originally Cobane
None other than Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain takes the top spot because his Irish roots are certainly a surprise. His ancestors emigrated from Co. Tyrone – when their surname was still Cobane. Kurt believed it might have been Cork, though.
Ireland may be a small country, but our influence around the world is anything but small. From movie stars to music legends and everything in between, these famous names prove that Irish heritage continues to leave its mark across the globe.
