WITH a name like hers, there can be no question about the nationality of rising star Saoirse Ronan.
The 21-year-old actress, who was born in New York to Irish parents, has been trail-blazing her way to nomination after nomination for her most recent role as Eilis Lacey in the film adaption of Colm Tóibín's novel Brooklyn.
But Ronan's nod for the Golden Globes this year saw a Sky News journalist come under fire for claiming Ronan as British.
No, no you cant @JOEdotie @paddypower @Independent_ie @entertainmentIE @thejournal_ie pic.twitter.com/L994wkgjXo
— shane smith (@shanesmith32) January 8, 2016
Despite huge backlash from Irish followers on Twitter, Sky's Richard Suchet did not back down - and in fact reiterated his stance, saying it was a "compliment".
In a tweet replying to RTÉ's TEN that has since been removed, the broadcaster said "She's from the British Isles & whether you like it or not, Brits will be willing her to win."
RTÉ TEN replied He followed this up with a second tweet saying "But many Brits will still see her as one of their own. It's a consequence of geography. A compliment I'd say."
But after this major faux pas, Mr Suchet finally backed down yesterday when he tweeted an apology for his comments.
On Saoirse, I apologise. It came out wrong. I know the UK can't claim her, of course. But the British would love to see her win for Ireland. — Richard Suchet (@SkySuchet) January 10, 2016
It was not the first time Co. Carlow-raised Ronan was claimed as a British actress - the London Film Critics Circle also tried to claim her last month.
