Brendan Gleeson at a Glance
- Categories: Celebrities > Actors, Celebrities
- Net Worth: $8 Million
- Birthdate: Mar 29, 1955 (69 years old)
- Birthplace: Dublin
- Gender: Male
- Profession: Actor, Teacher, Voice Actor
- Nationality: Republic of Ireland
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
Brendan Gleeson’s Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Life and Career of the Acclaimed Actor
Introduction: Unveiling Brendan Gleeson
Brendan Gleeson is a highly respected Irish actor, director, and producer. Known for his versatility and powerful performances, Gleeson has captivated audiences worldwide. This article will delve into the details of Brendan Gleeson’s net worth, providing a comprehensive overview of his career, early life, personal experiences, and the awards and recognition he has received.
Brendan Gleeson’s Net Worth: A Financial Snapshot
As of late 2023, Brendan Gleeson’s estimated net worth is $8 million. This figure reflects his successful career spanning several decades, encompassing roles in film, television, and theater. Gleeson’s financial success is a testament to his talent and the consistent demand for his performances in various projects.
Early Life and Education: The Formative Years
Brendan Gleeson was born on March 29, 1955, in Dublin, Ireland. Raised by his parents, Frank and Pat Gleeson, he grew up with a passion for reading and learning. He attended St. Joseph’s CBS, where his interest in the arts was nurtured through involvement in the school’s drama group. Gleeson’s academic pursuits led him to University College Dublin, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Irish and English.
After graduating, Gleeson pursued a career in education, teaching both languages at Catholic Belcamp College. However, his passion for acting remained strong. In 1991, he made the pivotal decision to leave teaching and fully commit to acting, marking a significant turning point in his career. In a candid 2014 NPR interview, Gleeson revealed a painful experience from his childhood, sharing that he was sexually abused by a Christian Brother. This revelation highlighted his resilience and willingness to speak openly about difficult past experiences.
Career Highlights: From Stage to Screen
Gleeson’s acting journey began with performances in several plays with the Passion Machine Theatre company, honing his craft on the stage. He also showcased his creative versatility by writing and directing plays such as “The Birdtable” and “Breaking Up.” His transition to the screen started with the 1989 TV movie “Dear Sarah.” From there, his career quickly accelerated.
His early film roles included “The Field” (1990), “Far and Away” (1992) and “Braveheart” (1995). Gleeson has consistently delivered memorable performances, showcasing his ability to portray a wide range of characters. Some of his most notable roles include:
- Alastor “Mad-Eye” Moody in the “Harry Potter” film series (2005–2010)
- Winston Churchill in the HBO movie “Into the Storm” (2009), earning him an Emmy Award.
- Bill Hodges in the “Mr. Mercedes” TV series (2017-2019).
‘Harry Potter’ and Beyond: Key Roles and Filmography
Brendan Gleeson’s role as Alastor “Mad-Eye” Moody in the “Harry Potter” film series brought him global recognition. He appeared in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” (2005), “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” (2007), and “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1” (2010). The “Harry Potter” franchise, with eight films, became a massive box-office success, generating $7.7 billion worldwide. Besides “Harry Potter”, Gleeson has starred in a wide array of films:

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- “Braveheart” (1995)
- “The General” (1998)
- “Mission: Impossible 2” (2000) with Tom Cruise
- “Gangs of New York” (2002)
- “Cold Mountain” (2003)
- “In Bruges” (2008)
- “The Guard” (2011)
- “Calvary” (2014)
- “The Tragedy of Macbeth” (2021)
His television work includes starring roles in “Mr. Mercedes” and “State of the Union” (2022) as well as the miniseries “The Comey Rule” (2020), where he portrayed Donald Trump.
Personal Life: Family and Interests
Brendan Gleeson married Mary Weldon in 1982. Together, they have four sons: Brian, Domhnall Gleeson, Fergus, and Rory. Notably, all four sons appeared alongside him in the 2012 TV movie “Immaturity for Charity,” with Domhnall also starring in the “Harry Potter” films. Gleeson is known to be a supporter of Aston Villa Football Club, reflecting his interests beyond acting. In addition, he enjoys playing the mandolin and fiddle and has a keen interest in Irish folklore, showcasing a deep connection to his Irish heritage.
Awards and Recognitions: Acknowledging Excellence
Brendan Gleeson has received numerous awards and nominations for his outstanding performances. His accolades include:
- A Primetime Emmy Award for “Into the Storm” (2009)
- Golden Globe nominations for “In Bruges,” “The Guard,” and “The Comey Rule.”
- BAFTA Award nominations for “In Bruges” and “Into the Storm.”
- British Independent Film Award for “Calvary.”
- Irish Film and Television Awards for “The General” and “Calvary.”
- A Career Achievement Award at the Dublin International Film Festival (2008).
These awards and nominations are a testament to his versatility and ability to captivate audiences and critics alike, solidifying his status as a highly respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Brendan Gleeson
Brendan Gleeson’s net worth reflects not only his financial success but also his remarkable talent, dedication, and enduring appeal as an actor. From his early days in theater to his iconic roles in major film franchises and critically acclaimed television series, Gleeson has consistently delivered memorable performances. With a rich body of work, a supportive family, and numerous accolades, he has secured his place as a significant figure in the world of acting, and he continues to inspire audiences and fellow actors worldwide.