RYNAGH O’Grady, best known for her work in the Abbey Theatre in Dublin and as shopkeeper Mary in TV hit comedy Father Ted, has been described as an actor of “grace, talent and humour” following her death.
The Abbey Theatre described her as a “beloved friend and colleague”.
The 67-year-old trained in the Abbey School of Acting and first appeared on its stage in 1969.
Her notable productions included Donal O’Kelly’s Mamie Sighs in 1990 and more recently Deirdre Kinahan’s The Unmanageable Sisters.
She also appeared on screen in films including A Love Divided as well as on TV shows including Father Ted where she was half of warring couple Mary and John.
Graham McLaren, Director of the Abbey Theatre, said: “Rynagh O Grady, Her grace, Her talent, Her humour, Her integrity, Her patience.
“I’d sneak into the back row of the Abbey to watch her hush a hysterical audience with a look, then lead them through a speech full of heart, humanity and justice,” he said.
“Irish theatre got a lot darker today.
“We were honoured to have Rynagh reading for the Abbey stage as part of Dear Ireland in August 2020. She will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, dear Rynagh.”
