Actor Michael Fassbender has paid tribute to his friend and mentor Donal Courtney, who has died aged 52 following a short illness.
The Kerry actor, director and playwright is credited with introducing Fassbender to acting and had recently established an acting school with the Hollywood star in Killarney.
In a tribute posted on the website of their acting school, West End House School of Arts, Fassbender said Courtney's talent was "as much a force of nature as it was eminent" and said he had "an endless generosity both as a performer and human being".
The Oscar-nominated actor said they had remained "firm friends" since they first met when he was 17 years old.
"The first thing that struck me about Donie was how he engaged with me as a peer and not a teenager," Fassbender wrote.
"He had a positivity to him that was absolutely infectious and an endless generosity both as a performer and human being. His talent was as much a force of nature as it was eminent. His sense of human nature was uncanny."
"He understood people's insecurities very well because he wore his own on his sleeve. Showing personal vulnerabilities so you could feel safe revealing yours. He was kind, just and honest, with a wicked sense of humour," Fassbender continued.
The Irish-German star added: "He is remembered by his family first and foremost, which for him was where his inspiration, joy and heart belonged. The rest of us will feel blessed and lucky for whatever time we’ve been able to share in his company.
"West End House School of Arts is Donie’s legacy and we will do our very best to honour him through our work in this unique Place that he created.
"For me he will always be my mentor. I will call on him in times of hardship and crisis and celebrate moments of joy with him. He stays with me always."
