Jamie Dornan: Why He Prefers Rugby Heroes to Movie Stars

Jamie Dornan Interview: "I Am More in Awe of Brian O’Driscoll Than Meryl Streep"

In the world of Hollywood, Jamie Dornan is a man who has shared screens with the best in the business. From Kenneth Branagh to Gal Gadot, the Northern Irish actor is no stranger to "A-list" energy. However, in a candid reflection on his own fame and personal heroes, the Belfast star recently admitted that his heart beats faster for a rugby pitch than a red carpet.

Dornan famously stated that he is "more in awe of Brian O’Driscoll than Meryl Streep," a comment that perfectly encapsulates his deep-rooted love for Irish sport and his humble approach to his own profession.

The Sportsman Within

Before he was an international sex symbol or a BAFTA-nominated actor, Dornan was a dedicated rugby player. Growing up in Belfast, he played as a winger for the Belfast Harlequins and even represented Ulster Rugby at the under-21 level.

For Dornan, the discipline and visceral thrill of sport represent a "truer" form of excellence than the craft of acting. While he respects the immense talent of someone like Meryl Streep, he views athletes like Brian O’Driscoll—the legendary former Ireland and British & Irish Lions captain—as the ultimate icons of dedication and physical mastery.

A Fan First, Actor Second

Dornan’s "starstruck" moments rarely happen at the Oscars. Instead, they occur at the Aviva Stadium or on the golf course. His friendship with O'Driscoll is well-documented, with the pair often seen together at Pro-Am golf tournaments like the Alfred Dunhill Links.

In various interviews, Dornan has explained this perspective:

• Relatability: As a former player, he understands the sheer grit required to reach the top of professional rugby.

• The "Magic" of Sport: To Dornan, a last-minute try or a perfectly executed tactical play holds more "magic" than a well-delivered monologue.

• Irish Pride: His admiration for O’Driscoll is deeply tied to his pride in Irish achievement on the global stage.

Why Meryl Streep Takes a Back Seat

It isn't that Dornan lacks respect for the three-time Academy Award winner. Rather, it’s that he views acting as his "job," which strips away some of the mystique. When he looks at a peer like Streep, he sees a master of their craft, but when he looks at O’Driscoll, he sees a hero who achieved things he once dreamed of doing himself on the rugby field.

This grounded outlook is part of why Dornan remains one of the most liked figures in the industry. He refuses to buy into the Hollywood "hype," often joking that he feels like an impostor at fancy awards shows.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Dornan continues to balance his "super-fan" status with a booming career. In 2026, he is set to showcase his dramatic range in the Netflix noir series The Undertow, where he takes on the challenge of playing identical twins.

Whether he’s playing a hero, a villain, or a set of twins, you can bet that if there’s an Ireland international match on, Jamie Dornan will be watching—likely more concerned with the scoreline than his latest box office numbers.

Source - https://www.telegraph.co.uk/rugby-union/2026/01/31/jamie-dornan-more-awe-brian-odriscoll-meryl-streep/

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