Since the success of Line of Duty has thrust Adrian Dunbar into the hearts of millions of viewers all over the world, Fermanagh has come into the spotlight for producing such a talent.
And while the gaffer has become Enniskillen ’s golden boy, he is not the only famous face to have roots in the county.
It’s true what they say, there is always a Fermanagh connection somewhere and here are some of the celebs and notable persons who have ties to Fermanagh.
Adrian Dunbar
As one of the most famous actors to come out of Northern Ireland, Adrian Dunbar was born and raised in the heart of the county. Playing Superintendent Ted Hastings in the hit BBC crime drama, he also has credits in films such as Good Vibrations and Mickybo and Me.
Fr. Brian D’Arcy
The Passionist priest who is now based in Co Down was born in Bellanaleck. He hosts a weekly radio programme on BBC Northern Ireland called Sunday with Brian D’Arcy and also writes a weekly newspaper column.
Roy Carroll
The Northern Irish professional footballer is best known for his spells at Wigan Athletic and Manchester United. He has also represented Northern Ireland 45 times at full international level, gaining his first cap in 1997 at 19. He was brought up in Tamlaght and began his career with Fivemiletown United and Ballinamallard United.
Arlene Foster
The former First Minister of Northern Ireland has always been very proud of her Fermanagh roots. Raised in Dernawilt, Foster has been a Member of the Northern Ireland Assembly for Fermanagh and South Tyrone since 2003. She was also the leader of the DUP from 2015 to 2021 and was the first woman to hold either position.
Charles Lawson
Enniskillen actor Charlie Lawson is probably best recognised for playing Jim McDonald in the ITV television soap Coronation Street. He first appeared as Jim, who was originally from Belfast, in 1989 and remained a regular character for the next 11 years, having last appeared on the show in 2018.
Brendan Dolan
Belcoo professional darts player Brendan Dolan is best known for becoming the first player to hit a nine-dart finishing a double to start an event, which he did at the 2011 World Grand Prix. He is nicknamed “The History Maker”.
Kyle Lafferty
The Northern Irish professional footballer who has played for teams such as Rangers and Burnley throughout his career is also an Enniskillen man. Lafferty began playing adult football in Fermanagh firstly with NFC Kesh and very briefly with Ballinamallard United.
Samuel Beckett
Although not born in Fermanagh, famous Irish poet and playwright Samuel Beckett attended school in Enniskillen which makes him an honourable mention. Around 1919 or 1920, he went to Portora Royal School which Oscar Wilde had also attended.
