Cillian Murphy, born on May 25, 1976, in Cork, Ireland, is an acclaimed actor known for his versatile performances on both stage and screen. He grew up in a family with a strong educational background; his mother taught French, and his father worked for the Department of Education.

Cillian Murphy initially pursued a career in law at University College Cork but dropped out to follow his passion for acting and music. He began his acting career with the Corcadorca Theatre Company in Cork, where he played the lead role in the play "Disco Pigs," which later became a film adaptation.

His breakthrough in film came with his role in Danny Boyle's "28 Days Later" in 2002, which garnered international attention. He continued to build his career with notable performances in films such as "Cold Mountain," "Girl with a Pearl Earring," and "Red Eye."

His portrayal of Dr. Jonathan Crane, also known as the Scarecrow, in Christopher Nolan's "Batman Begins" and its sequels further established him as a talented actor capable of playing complex characters. His collaboration with Nolan extended to other films, including "Inception" and "Dunkirk."

In addition to his film career, he gained widespread recognition for his role as Thomas Shelby in the BBC series "Peaky Blinders," which aired from 2013 to 2022. His performance as the cunning and ambitious gang leader earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

His ability to portray a wide range of characters is evident in his diverse filmography, which includes roles in "Breakfast on Pluto," "The Wind That Shakes the Barley," and "Sunshine."

His personal life is relatively private. He married Yvonne McGuinness, an artist, in 2004, and the couple has two children.

Despite his success in Hollywood, Cillian Murphy prefers to live in Ireland and has expressed a desire to maintain a low profile, avoiding the typical celebrity lifestyle. He is known for his distinctive blue eyes and chameleonic ability to transform into his characters, making him a favorite among directors and audiences alike.

Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and nominations. He won the Irish Film and Television Award for Best Actor for his role in "Breakfast on Pluto" and received a Golden Globe nomination for the same performance.

His portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer in Nolan's "Oppenheimer" earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, solidifying his status as one of the most talented actors of his generation.