Martin McCann grew up with a brother and sister in the Falls Road, Divis Flats area of Belfast, Northern Ireland. This childhood upbringing had a profound impact on his future, shaping his perspective and informing his artistic endeavors. In 2006, Lord Richard Attenborough, renowned director and producer, took notice of McCann's exceptional talent, casting him in the film "Closing the Ring" (2007) after seeing him play Alex in a stage production of A Clockwork Orange. This breakthrough role led to further opportunities, including an invitation to audition for the HBO miniseries "The Pacific," where he secured the part of R.V. Burgin.
In early 2010, McCann filmed in Belfast for the music-comedy "Killing Bono," a film that tells the story of one of Bono's classmates who strives to make it in the music industry, only to have his failures and frustrations exacerbated by U2's continued success. McCann takes on the role of Bono, showcasing his impressive range and versatility as an actor. He has also performed on stage in Ireland and on tour, further honing his craft.
In 2011, McCann won the Irish Film and Television Award for best male performance in a feature film for "Swansong: Story of Occi Byrne." This recognition solidified his position as a talented and dedicated actor. He was also nominated as a 2015 "BAFTA Breakthrough," a prestigious honor that acknowledges emerging talent in the film industry.
Throughout his career, McCann has amassed an impressive array of film credits, including the Netflix Original film "Calibre," Film Four's "71," "The Survivalist," Michael Lennox's Oscar-nominated and BAFTA-winning short film "Boogaloo and Graham," and Terrence Malick's "The Last Planet." His performances have been met with critical acclaim, and he has become a respected figure in the industry.
McCann has been nominated for a BAFTA Scotland Award for the Netflix production "Calibre" and was 2024 IFTA nominated for his performance in the BBC production "Blue Lights." In addition to his professional accomplishments, he has also become a patron of the charity YouthAction Northern Ireland, utilizing his platform to support a worthy cause and make a positive impact on his community.
