Irish actor Donal Donnelly dies
The death has occurred of the Irish actor Donal Donnelly.
The 78-year-old, who was based in the US, had been ill for some time. He died in Chicago yesterday.
Born in Bradford, England of Irish parents, Donnelly's family moved to Dublin when he was small and he was raised in Rathgar.
Donal Donnelly had a successful career in film, including starring in Francis Ford Coppola's 'The Godfather: Part III' and John Huston's 'The Dead'.
He also had a successful stage career in Dublin, London and New York.
He is survived by his wife, Patsy, and two sons.
Watch a clip of Donal Donnelly playing the drunken Freddy Malins in 'The Dead'.
Paying tribute to Donal Donnelly, the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Martin Cullen, said: "Indeed, Donal Donnelly had a very successful career in film, including starring in Francis Ford Coppola's 'The Godfather: Part III' and John Huston's 'The Dead'.
"Born in England, he was in fact a great ambassador for Ireland, having grown up and been educated in Dublin.
"He received great praise for his work in the United States and in many ways was one of the first of the Irish success stories which today we continue to enjoy in the world of international film.
"I extend my sympathy to his wife Patsy and both his sons. May he rest in peace."
