Cillian Murphy thanks people of Cork for their support
Cillian Murphy has thanked the people of Cork for their huge support during awards season which came to a close at tonight's Irish Film and Television Academy awards (IFTAs).
Speaking to the after picking up the award for Lead Actor in a Film for his role in , Murphy said it meant a lot to him.
"The support was amazing and I really genuinely want to thank everyone. It was really stunning support," he said.
"It meant a lot to me."
Murphy didn't reveal whether he has posted a letter in his golden letterbox near his parents' home in Cork but did joke that he "went past it with a hoodie on".
Reflecting on his resounding success over the past few years, Murphy said he could never have imagined just how well things have gone.
The now-Oscar winner was returning to the IFTAs, 21 years after he was first nominated for one, and said how special it is to be honoured at home.
"Being in this room is very, very special, being home and there are so many people here that I love and admire," he said as he accepted his award.
Murphy praised Ireland and those in the industry for the encouragement and support he has received since starting out in his career - mentioning Lisa Cook, Neil Jordan, Jim Sheridan and Stephen Rae.
"We call it showbusiness but it really does feel like a community when it's done well."
Offering advice to the younger generation, Murphy encouraged them to "keep rising, keep going".
Last but not least, he thanked his wife for her love and support.
Murphy was not long back in his seat before he had to take to the stage again to collect the award for Best International Film for .
The award, he said, belonged to director Christopher Nolan, but he was happy to accept on his behalf.
Filled with admiration for his director, collaborator and friend, Murphy said that films like had brought people back to the cinemas.
Murphy hailed the trojan work done by crews in Ireland and beyond, calling them the heroes of the industry.
