Carolyn Bracken, Brendan Canty, Myrid Carten, and Louisa Harland nominated for 2026 Screen Ireland - IFTA Rising Star Award

The Irish Film & Television Association (IFTA) have announced the nominees for the 2026 Screen Ireland - IFTA Rising Star Award. Nominees include Horseshoe actor Carolyn Bracken, Christy director Brendan Canty, A Want in Her director Myrid Carten, and The Walsh Sisters actor Louisa Harland.

The Screen Ireland - IFTA Rising Star Award is designed to put “an international spotlight on Irish professionals who have honed their craft in their formative years”. Previous winners include Saoirse Ronan, Michael Fassbender, and Jamie Dornan.

“These four superb individuals are a true reflection of the brilliant new wave of Irish talent who are proving themselves to be world-class screen professionals,” said Áine Moriarty, Chief Executive of the Irish Film and Television Academy. “This prestigious Award has recognised many great Irish talents in the early stage of their careers and, for the four Nominees this year, we hope this recognition will bolster the next phase of their creative journeys internationally. Congratulations to each of them.”

"Our sincere congratulations to each of the nominees announced for the 2026 IFTA Rising Star Award,” said Désirée Finnegan, Chief Executive of Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland. “These nominations highlight a new generation of incredible storytellers in Ireland, and Screen Ireland is proud to sponsor the award, supporting new and established voices and artists across the screen industry."

The winner of the award will be announced on February 20 at the 2026 IFTA Awards Ceremony. All four nominees are also nominated in other categories at the IFTA Awards, including Canty, whose film Christy is nominated in 14 categories.