Cillian Murphy’s 2 Sons: Malachy and Aran’s Inspiring Journey

One of Cillian Murphy’s sons is already following in his father’s acting footsteps.

Despite his demanding career as an Oscar-winning actor, Peaky Blinders star Cillian Murphy treasures his role as a father to his two sons, Malachy and Aran. Raised alongside his wife, visual artist Yvonne McGuinness, the couple has prioritized providing their boys with a grounded and private upbringing, even as Murphy’s career reached Hollywood heights with films like Inception and Oppenheimer.

Who Are Cillian Murphy’s Sons?

Malachy Murphy was born in 2005, followed by Aran in 2007. During these early years, Murphy’s career was gaining traction, yet he deliberately shielded his family from the public eye. The actor ensured his sons experienced a childhood far removed from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

Murphy has expressed pride in his boys, stating, “They’re really good lads. We laugh a lot together. They’re more sure of themselves than I was at their age.”

The family’s move from London to Dublin in 2015 marked a significant change for Malachy and Aran, as Murphy sought to reconnect with his Irish roots and raise his children in a quieter, seaside environment. The boys quickly adapted to their new life, including developing Irish accents—a shift that delighted Murphy.

Balancing Fatherhood and Fame

Though Murphy’s work often pulls him away from home, he credits his wife, Yvonne, for supporting him through the challenges of balancing acting and family life. “That work-life balance is tough,” he told GQ. “But I have an amazing wife, and I couldn’t do this without her understanding.”

Murphy’s love for family has been evident at awards ceremonies. During his 2024 Oscar acceptance speech for Oppenheimer, he dedicated his win to Yvonne and their sons, saying, “I love you so much, and I’m so proud to share this journey with you.”

Malachy and Aran’s Unique Paths

Aran, the younger of the two, has already begun following in his father’s footsteps as an actor. At just 11 years old, he embarked on a world tour as the lead in Hamnet, a stage production about Shakespeare’s only son. Murphy described Aran’s ease with acting as “something I’m slightly jealous of—he’s so chilled about it.”

Aran has also stepped into film, appearing in the indie movie Lola in 2022 and landing a major role in Taika Waititi’s Klara and the Sun, alongside Jenna Ortega and Amy Adams.

While Malachy’s interests remain more private, Murphy has expressed that his sons are his biggest fans and greatest support system. They occasionally watch his films, although they jokingly describe them as “intense.”

Teaching Empathy and Kindness

As a father, Murphy emphasizes the importance of raising empathetic and compassionate sons. He has even lent his voice to programs promoting empathy in schools. “Raising boys, it seems both practical and necessary to promote empathy. Listening and responding emotionally is essential—not just in acting but in life,” he shared with The Guardian.