Malachy McCourt

Malachy McCourt, the Irish American author and actor best known for his role on the soap opera Ryan’s Hope, has sadly passed away at the age of 92. His wife, Diana McCourt, confirmed this news. Malachy McCourt faced many health challenges throughout his life, including heart conditions, cancer, and muscular degeneration.

Born in Brooklyn on September 20, 1931, McCourt’s early life was marked by poverty in Limerick, Ireland, as portrayed in his brother Frank’s memoir, Angela’s Ashes. He went on to write his own memoirs, including Monk Swimming, a continuation of Angela’s Ashes, and Singing My Him Song, which explored the theme of fatherhood.

In addition to his writing, McCourt established a pub named after himself, Malachy’s, in Manhattan, which became a prominent gathering place for the New York Irish community. Actor Richard Harris, a dear friend, even worked as a bartender there briefly. McCourt’s connection to the Irish community extended to his bid for the governorship of New York in 2006.

While McCourt was known for his role as Kevin the bartender on Ryan’s Hope, his acting career spanned a wide range of film and television productions. Some of his notable credits include The Other Guys, The Devil’s Own, Brewster’s Millions, and Oz [^4^]. McCourt appeared in 217 episodes of Ryan’s Hope and was beloved for his annual Christmas roles on All My Children as Father Clarence, a wise and inspirational priest.

Malachy McCourt will be remembered not only for his contributions as an actor and author but also as a beloved figure in the Irish American community. He leaves behind his wife, children, stepchildren, and many grandchildren, who will carry on his legacy.

Malachy McCourt and his wife