Irish Parasocial Icons: From Gay Byrne to Paul Mescal

By Gráinne Glynn

Parasocial relationships aren’t a new trend or buzzword that came along with the popularity of the internet. Before we had Instagram or TikTok, Irish audiences formed deep connections with public figures through radio, television, and film. These relationships, however one-sided, often seem very personal. Gay Byrne, the legendary Late Late Show host, is an example of one of the earliest examples of a “parasocial relationship” in Ireland. For years, Byrne wasn’t just a TV presenter but was always there in Irish households. This reassuring voice helped the country navigate through significant cultural events, heated discussions, and times of shared tragedy.

Byrne’s honest interview style and friendly attitude created a relationship with viewers who felt like they truly knew him, even though their connection only existed due to a screen. He felt friendly, like the country’s unofficial confidant, because he could ask insightful questions without offending his visitors. His show became a forum for discussing everything from politics to religion, creating a sense of shared experiences related to more than just entertainment.

Now, parasocial relationships in Ireland have taken on a new form. Paul Mescal, star of the hit show Normal People, has become a global heartthrob, symbolising a very different kind of parasocial connection. Social media has a major effect on this, allowing fans to feel personally connected to him through interviews, Instagram posts, and viral moments (like his iconic GAA shorts). In Normal People, Mescal’s portrayal of Connell Waldron resonated deeply with audiences, particularly young Irish viewers, who saw their own struggles with mental health, masculinity, and self-doubt reflected in his performance. This on-screen vulnerability, mixed with his quiet and modest personality, has created a sense of closeness between him and his fans. His every move, from acting role announcements to rumored relationships, is investigated with great interest, showing the evolution of parasocial relations in the digital age.

But what is it about Irish culture that creates these personal bonds with celebrities? Part of the answer does lie in Ireland’s history with storytelling. This history is still influencing modern media, as Irish audiences have long valued narratives that come across as authentic and personal. Public figures like Byrne and Mescal have embodied this tradition, offering insights into themselves that feel genuine, even if they were carefully created to appear that way. Mescal’s ability to represent a deeply relatable character and Byrne’s ability to calm the nation’s worries both appeal to a cultural need for relatability and connection.

Another factor is the size of Ireland itself. As a smaller country, the boundaries between public figures and “normal” people often feel less solid. Unlike the distant mega-celebrities of Hollywood, Irish icons tend to feel more approachable. It’s not uncommon to hear of someone spotting Mescal in a pub or reminiscent of a time when Byrne gave a speech at a local event. These interactions, however short, do emphasise the feeling of familiarity that powers these parasocial connections. Yet, as endearing as this can seem for the audience, for the objects of this worship it can come with challenges. For Byrne, the intense scrutiny of his every move as a public figure came with significant pressures, especially during moments of national issues. Similarly, Mescal has spoken out about the pressure of fame and the invasive nature of modern celebrity culture. Fans may feel like they “know” these people, but the relationship remains only one-sided, often placing extreme emotional weight on the shoulders of these celebrities.

Ultimately, the stories of Gay Byrne and Paul Mescal highlight how parasocial relationships have evolved while remaining rooted in their values in Ireland. Whether it’s through the conversations of the Late Late Show or the silent influence of an actor wearing GAA staples, these figures remind us of the power of connection, even when it exists only in our minds. As technology continues to evolve and blur the lines between public and private life, the way we engage with our icons will likely change for better or worse. What will remain consistent, however, is the Irish ability to make even the most distant celebrity feel like one of us.

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