Quick Read
- Anthony Boyle won Lead Actor in a Drama at the 2026 IFTA Awards.
- The award was for his performance in the series ‘House of Guinness’.
- Boyle, from Belfast, expressed honor representing Northern Ireland.
- Lola Petticrew and the series ‘Blue Lights’ also received IFTA honors.
- Boyle’s rising profile includes social media attention for his ‘sex symbol status’.
DUBLIN (Azat TV) – Irish actor Anthony Boyle received the Lead Actor in a Drama award at the 2026 Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards, recognizing his compelling performance in the series ‘House of Guinness.’ The win, announced on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre, underscores Boyle’s burgeoning profile, building on a career that began on the London stage after his graduation from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.
Boyle, a Belfast native, expressed his profound honor upon accepting the prestigious award, noting the significance of representing Northern Ireland among his industry heroes. His portrayal in ‘House of Guinness’ has garnered critical acclaim, solidifying his position as a prominent talent within the vibrant landscape of Irish and international television.
Anthony Boyle’s IFTA Triumph for ‘House of Guinness’
The 2026 IFTA Awards celebrated the finest in Irish film and television, with Anthony Boyle emerging as an early highlight by securing the Lead Actor in a Drama trophy. Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph, Boyle conveyed his excitement at attending the ceremony alongside his father, emphasizing the honor of being recognized among such esteemed peers. “It’s so exciting, I’m here with my dad, and it’s just amazing to be here representing the north amongst a room with some of my heroes,” he stated on the red carpet. Upon accepting his award, he added, “I didn’t expect this at all, it’s such a great honour.”
Boyle’s win for ‘House of Guinness’ is a testament to his nuanced acting, a skill honed through years of dedicated work, including his foundational training and early performances on the London stage. This latest accolade positions him firmly at the forefront of a new generation of Irish actors making significant impacts globally. The series ‘House of Guinness’ itself has been a notable success, providing a powerful platform for Boyle’s talent.
Northern Irish Talent Shines at the IFTA Awards
The IFTA Awards ceremony, hosted by comedian and broadcaster Kevin McGahern, saw a strong representation and considerable success for talent from Northern Ireland. Alongside Boyle, fellow Belfast actor Lola Petticrew also celebrated a significant win, taking home the award for Lead Actress in a Drama for her role in ‘Trespasses.’ Petticrew, known for her work in Disney and FX’s ‘Say Nothing,’ spoke passionately about the privilege of telling stories from the North and her commitment to advocating for voices through art, as reported by Evoke.ie.
The acclaimed Northern Irish police series ‘Blue Lights’ was named Best Drama, further highlighting the region’s impact on contemporary television. Creators Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson teased an “emotional” fourth series currently in production, promising a heartfelt continuation of the procedural drama. Veteran Belfast actor Ciarán Hinds was also honored with the Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his extensive contributions to film and television over several decades, which he humbly described as “embarrassing and awkward” but ultimately a source of pride for his work and that of his peers.
Boyle’s Rising Profile and Public Attention
Beyond the critical acclaim, Anthony Boyle’s increasing visibility has also garnered significant public attention. Reports from Evoke.ie highlighted the actor’s reaction to his burgeoning “sex symbol status” on social media, noting that he takes it in stride, often kept humble by his younger sister who sends him “thirst trap edits” and playful jibes. This blend of serious acting prowess and unexpected celebrity reflects the multifaceted nature of his career trajectory.
His role in ‘House of Guinness’ follows other high-profile projects, including ‘Say Nothing,’ where his performances have consistently drawn praise. Boyle is among a number of local performers recognized this year, reflecting what has been another strong 12 months for Northern Ireland-connected productions, underscoring a period of flourishing creativity and international recognition for the region’s artists.
Anthony Boyle’s IFTA win for ‘House of Guinness’ not only solidifies his individual achievements but also serves as a significant marker of the growing influence and talent emerging from Northern Ireland’s film and television industry, indicating a sustained period of creative output gaining international acclaim.