Actor Robert Carrickford, Glenroe’s Stephen Brennan, dies

The death has taken place of actor Robert Carrickford, best known for his role as Stephen Brennan in RTÉ series Glenroe.

Mr Carrickford, who was 88, played the character for 18 years until the show went off air in 2001.

He was president of Irish Actors Equity during the 1980s and 1990s, representing and lobbying for better pay and conditions for Irish actors. He also played several roles at the Abbey Theatre between 1969 and 1980.

His screen roles included Sinclair in Strumpet City, McCaffery in The Irish RM and Fogarty in The Ballroom of Romance.

He is survived by his wife Mary, a daughter and two grandchildren.

Last night, President Michael D Higgins paid tribute to the actor and extended his sympathies to his family.

“It is with great sadness that I learned of the death of Robert Carrickford, the actor of Abbey Theatre and TV fame. For many, Robert will forever be the face of Stephen Brennan in the iconic Glenroe TV series, while others will fondly remember his long spell in various significant roles in the Abbey Theatre, as well as his performances in The Riordans and Bracken.

“In his capacity of President of the Irish Actors Equity, the trade union for stage actors and his contribution to the trade union movement, he left a lasting legacy for all those who perform in Ireland’s theatres and screens.

“To his family and friends, Sabina and I send our deepest sympathies.”