Cyril James Cusack, a renowned thespian, was born in Durban, Natal, South Africa, to a mother of Cockney English descent, Alice Violet Cole, a talented actress and chorus girl, and a father, James Walter Cusack, an Irish mounted policeman stationed in Natal. Despite being born in South Africa, Cyril was brought up in Ireland, where he would later make a name for himself in the world of Irish theater.
Cyril's early start in the performing arts was marked by his debut on the Irish stage at the tender age of 7. He went on to tour Ireland with his own theater company, honing his craft and gaining valuable experience. Although he did make appearances in several notable films, his petite stature ultimately limited his chances of landing the more iconic roles.
In his personal life, Cyril was married to the lovely Maureen Cusack, a talented Irish-born actress who was previously known as Mary Margaret Kiely. Together, they had a daughter, Sinéad Cusack, who would also go on to become a successful actress. Cyril was also the proud grandfather of actor Max Irons, Sinéad's son.