Gabriel Byrne: From the seminary to the screen

Gabriel Byrne is a man of many parts. The former archaelogist, novice priest, schoolteacher, cook, messenger boy and plumber — who even tried his hand at bullfighting — has long since morphed into a multi-award winning actor, film director, film producer, writer, cultural ambassador and audiobook narrator.

Little wonder then that he is to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Irish Film and Television Academy.

He will be presented with the honour by President Michael D Higgins, himself a former recipient, at the ceremony tonight in the Mansion House in Dublin.