Dermot O’Leary recently shared insights about his upbringing in England as part of an Irish family, revealing the complexities of his identity. Born in Colchester to parents from Wexford, Ireland, Dermot has always embraced his Irish roots, even opting for an Irish passport instead of a British one.
During his appearance on the Six O’Clock Show in Dublin, Dermot reflected on his experiences growing up in a Church of England school surrounded by English friends. Despite this, he maintained a strong connection to his Irish heritage. He noted the differences in how his identity is perceived in Ireland compared to the UK, saying, “It’s more of a big deal when you say over here [that you’re Irish]. When you’re in the UK, people just go: ‘yeah, he’s Irish over there.’”
The presenter recounted playful rivalries with his Irish cousins, who would tease him for being English. “It’s a very good-natured rivalry,” he explained, noting that the teasing would only escalate if someone else dared to call him English. Dermot acknowledged that while he wasn’t raised in Ireland, growing up within a tight-knit Irish community in England offered him a unique version of the Irish experience.
He described his childhood as a blend of cultures, highlighting how his family participated in community rituals like Mass and gatherings in the hotel bar. These moments, filled with music and familial ties, contrasted with his weekday life at school, which felt distinctly English. He reminisced fondly about weekends spent visiting his aunt in London, where activities included watching his father play hurling and enjoying home-cooked meals.
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Dermot characterized himself as a “child of two fathers,” enveloped in both English and Irish cultures. “I’ve had an Irish passport since dot,” he remarked, indicating that he has always identified as Irish, albeit not from Ireland in a traditional sense. He elaborated on what it means to grow up with a unique second-generation identity, explaining, “It’s never been an issue for me. It’s never been a problem.”
Previously, during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, he reiterated his stance on his identity. “I always say that I’m Irish but I’m not from Ireland,” he explained. “I know my history, I know my family, I love the country, but I also love living here [in England]. I don’t see why those two can’t live quite happily next to each other.”
Dermot O’Leary’s reflections reveal a nuanced relationship with his heritage, navigating the rich tapestry of his identity shaped by both Irish and English influences.
