Frank Kelly was an Irish actor who is best known for Father Ted, Evelyn, and Rat. Born on December 28, 1938, in Blackrock, County Dublin, he made a significant mark in the entertainment industry.
Personal and Family Life
Frank Kelly was married to Bairbre Neldon from September 1964 until his death in February 2016. The couple had seven children together, creating a large family. Kelly had a background in law and obtained a Bachelor of Law from University College Dublin, although he never practiced as a lawyer.
Career Highlights
Kelly gained fame for his role as Father Jack Hackett in the popular sitcom Father Ted. He also achieved a UK Top 30 hit in December 1983 with the humorous song “Christmas Countdown.” Throughout his career, he played various characters in film and television, earning recognition for his versatile talents.
Death and Legacy
Frank Kelly passed away on February 28, 2016, due to Parkinson’s disease, which was also the 18th anniversary of his co-star Dermot Morgan’s death. His contributions to comedy and acting continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans. Kelly left behind a legacy of laughter and memorable performances that impacted many.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Father Ted | 1995-04-21 | Father Jack Hackett |
| Evelyn | 2002-09-30 | Henry Doyle |
| Rat | 2001-04-01 | Uncle Matt |
| Mrs. Brown’s Boys D’Movie | 2014-06-27 | Justice Cannon |
| War of the Buttons | 1994-09-29 | Gorilla’s Dad |
| Tea with the Dead | 2014-08-09 | Frank Finnegan |
| The Deal | 2003-09-28 | John Smith |
| Small, Far Away: The World of Father Ted | 2011-01-01 | |
| Turning Green | 2005-06-11 | Father O’Hara |
| Lexx | 1997-04-18 | Father Pickle |
| Hear My Song | 1991-12-27 | Taxi Driver 2 |
| The Boys & Girl from County Clare | 2003-09-12 | The Chairman |
| Dermot Morgan – Fearless Funnyman | 2013-12-27 | Self |
| O Mary This London | 1994-03-30 | Hotel priest |
| Taffin | 1988-02-26 | Liam |
| Soft Sand, Blue Sea | 1998-05-25 | Insp. Fitzgerald |
| Yu Ming Is Ainm Dom | 2003-10-17 | Paddy |
| The Unusual Inventions of Henry Cavendish | 2005-02-17 | Mr. Thomas Palmerston |
| The Running Mate | 2007-09-26 | Paul ‘Polly’ O’Sullivan |
| Trivia | Died on the 18th anniversary of Father Ted co-star Dermot Morgan’s death. |