Ahern documentary up for top TV award

Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern could be rubbing shoulders with a host of Hollywood stars after being shortlisted for a top television award, it emerged today.

The politician is set to share Valentine’s night and the red carpet with top actors Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Colin Farrell and Peter O’Toole, who have all been nominated in the sixth Annual Irish Film and Television Awards (IFTA).

’Bertie’, a documentary series on the politician’s life including his fall from the top when probes into his personal finances forced his shock resignation last year, and GAA sports programme ’Road to Croker... With Bertie Ahern’ hosted by the TD are both up for IFTAs.

Farrell and Gleeson are competing for the leading actor category for their roles in the hit film 'In Bruges', while Meyers is up for the best actor in television show 'The Tudors', which received eight nominations.

Oscar nominee Saoirse Ronan is also hoping to win awards for her role as leading actress in the movie, 'City of Ember', and supporting role in 'Death Defying Acts'.

Nominations were announced in 37 award categories across film and television, highlighting the highest standard of Irish talent over the past 12 months.

Academy CEO, Aine Moriarty, said Ireland has a fantastic resource of creative talent.

“2008 has been another strong year of world-class Irish production across a very interesting mix of genres and styles,” she said.

“The Academy is proud to give due recognition and reward to home-grown Irish talent for their creative achievements both at home and abroad.”

All categories have been shortlisted by academy members and jury panels of experts from around the world.

The ceremony, on Valentine’s Night at the Burlington Hotel, will be broadcast on RTE One.