Marie Kean (27 June 1918 – 29 December 1993) was an Irish stage and screen actress, with a career spanning over 40 years,[1]The Stage called her one of Ireland's most impressive actresses, and "an artist of considerable emotional depth and theatrical command."[2]
Kean's leading role as the kindly matriarch Mrs. Kennedy in the Radio Éireann serial drama The Kennedys of Castleross made her famous throughout Ireland. She starred in the programme for the duration of its 18-year run.[4]
In 1968, Kean won a Jacob's Award for her performance as Winnie in RTÉ television's production of Samuel Beckett's play Happy Days, a role she had performed on stage and which she described later as her favourite part.[5] Among her other television roles was that of Mrs. Conn Brickley, Bridget's mother, in an episode of the Irish RM titled "The Boat's Share".[6]
Kean's many stage appearances include performances in the plays of Synge, O'Casey and Friel. She had the lead role of Maggie Polpin in the 1969 world première of John B. Keane's play Big Maggie at the Cork Opera House[7] In 1978 she won the State of New York best actress award for her performance in what has become Keane's most successful play.[8]