The Louis Theroux Podcast S3 EP7: Barry Keoghan on his childhood, avoiding online hate and dancing in 'Saltburn'
Nov 5, 2024
Barry Keoghan, an Irish actor known for films like Dunkirk and The Banshees of Inisherin, talks about his turbulent Dublin childhood and time in foster care. He discusses dealing with online trolling and why he limits social media exposure. He also explains the story behind his infamous naked dancing scene in Saltburn and how physicality shapes his performances.
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How 'Straight' Direction Creates Uncanny Characters
- Barry Keoghan's unsettling roles often come from directors' choices to have him play scenes 'straight', which amplifies creepiness without overt menace.
- He cites Yorgos Lanthimos's direction on The Killing of a Sacred Deer: 'stop acting' and 'stop moving'.
Necrotising Fasciitis Nearly Cost Him His Arm
- Barry nearly missed filming The Banshees of Inisherin after developing necrotising fasciitis that required surgery and threatened amputation.
- Surgeons removed infected tissue, Liverpool specialists were consulted, and production waited while he recovered in hospital for weeks.
Choosing Fewer Roles To Protect Emotional Health
- Barry treats emotional, vulnerable performances as therapeutic but draining, so he spaces projects to protect his wellbeing and craft.
- He references actors like Daniel Day-Lewis and Christian Bale as models for selective, infrequent roles.
