Barry Keoghan, the 32-year-old Irish actor recently addressed criticism about his role as a father. During an episode of The Louis Theroux podcast, released on Tuesday, November 5, Keoghan discussed the accusations of being a "deadbeat dad" to his two-year-old son, Brando, whom he shares with his ex-partner Alyson Sandro.
Keoghan, known for his roles in Saltburn, The Banshees of Inisherin, and The Batman, expressed frustration over these accusations, claiming that they misrepresent his dedication as a father and arise largely from his decision to keep Brando's life private.
In his interview with Theroux, Barry Keoghan explained that while he once frequently shared photos of his son on social media, he made the conscious decision to stop doing so as his career gained more public attention.
"The more attention I've gotten lately and the more in the public I've become, the less I've posted about my child, because I don't think it's fair to put my child online"
Barry Keoghan also expressed anger about the assumptions people have made due to his privacy choices.
"Because I reigned that in, people draw a narrative and go, 'Absent father, s---, deadbeat dad,' and more disgusting things I wouldn't even repeat. Just the audacity of some people, man, it sickens me. It makes me furious."
The actor stated that he strongly believes online critics do not understand his commitment as a father, adding that they had "no indication" of it. He further said that he didn't want to "feed them more material" as they "don't deserve that."
Barry Keoghan opens up about fatherhood
Despite his decision to limit posts about his son, Barry Keoghan occasionally shares moments with Brando on social media. In August, he posted a selfie with Brando on Instagram, with the caption,
"He’s more of a charmer than i am. Our wee Brando"
Beyond the accusations of being an absentee father, Keoghan addressed other criticisms he has faced. This included comments about his appearance and his choices in acting roles.
In his conversation with Theroux, Keoghan revealed that he has been subjected to hurtful remarks on social media about his looks. He added that the comments he had received were "absolutely disgusting."
The actor stated that he had "tough skin," however, he added that it was sad to see people "judge you and pick you apart online."
"People can sit there and make videos and be like, 'I don't like his face,' 'He looks weird' or 'He looks evil' and just pick you apart," he shared.
In addition, Barry Keoghan talked about his decision to avoid "weird" or villainous roles, explaining that he wants to showcase his versatility as an actor. Reflecting on his career choices, he said he was "trying to learn" from actors like Daniel Day-Lewis and Christian Bale, who "don't show up for everything."
Barry Keoghan has several high-profile projects in the pipeline. He is expected to appear in the upcoming Peaky Blinders film, which will continue the narrative of the successful television series. Keoghan also recently starred in Emerald Fennell's Saltburn, where he plays a character who infiltrates an upper-class family.
The film features a notable scene where Keoghan dances through a mansion to Sophie Ellis-Bextor's Murder on the Dancefloor. The scene sparked speculation about digital enhancements, which the actor dismissed.
During his podcast appearance, Barry Keoghan reflected on his personal journey, sharing details about his challenging childhood, spent in foster care. He recalled living with 13 different families and how his experiences have shaped his outlook on life and parenthood.