Redmond Morris, 4th Baron Killanin, Irish director, producer, and production manager

George Redmond Fitzpatrick Morris, the 4th Baron Killanin, born on January 26, 1947, is a distinguished Irish film producer with a career spanning several decades. He is widely recognized for his significant contributions to cinema, often credited professionally as Redmond Morris.

A Legacy of Prominence: Family Roots and Notable Connections

Born in Dublin, Ireland, Lord Killanin hails from a family deeply embedded in Irish history and public life. The Morris family stands as one of the historically significant fourteen families collectively known as 'the Tribes of Galway.' These powerful merchant families played a pivotal role in shaping the political and commercial landscape of Galway city from the late medieval to the early modern periods, leaving an indelible mark on Irish heritage.

His lineage further underscores his family's prominence. He is the eldest son of Sheila and Michael Morris, the 3rd Baron Killanin, who achieved global recognition as the sixth President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOC is the supreme authority of the Olympic Movement, responsible for organizing the Olympic Games and promoting Olympism worldwide. His father's tenure at the helm of such a prestigious international organization highlights the family's influence beyond Ireland.

Lord Killanin's mother, Sheila, was the daughter of Canon Douglas Dunlop, who served as the Rector of Oughterard. Furthermore, she was the granddaughter of Henry Dunlop, a key figure involved in the construction of Lansdowne Road in 1872. This iconic Dublin venue, now known as Aviva Stadium, stands as one of Ireland's premier sporting stadiums, primarily hosting rugby and football matches, and its historical ties to the Dunlop family add another layer to Lord Killanin's rich familial heritage.

Education and a Distinguished Career in Film Production

Lord Killanin's educational journey began at Gonzaga College in Ranelagh, Dublin, an esteemed secondary school. He continued his studies at Ampleforth College, a renowned Roman Catholic boarding school in North Yorkshire, England, before returning to Ireland to attend Dublin University (Trinity College Dublin), one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country.

His career in the film industry commenced in the 1970s, where he honed his craft as an assistant director. This foundational experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of film set operations. He then progressed to the crucial role of production manager, overseeing the logistical and financial aspects of notable films. Among these were the visually distinctive The Draughtsman's Contract (1982), a British period drama by Peter Greenaway, and the acclaimed spy thriller Gorky Park (1983), based on Martin Cruz Smith's novel. His adeptness in these roles paved the way for his advancement into overall production and executive production, where he took on broader responsibilities in shaping and delivering cinematic projects.

Professional and Personal Identifiers

While formally known as George Redmond Fitzpatrick Morris, 4th Baron Killanin, he is most commonly recognized in film credits and within the industry as Redmond Morris. This professional moniker simplifies his identity for audiences and collaborators. To his family and close friends, he is affectionately known by the more informal monikers of Red Killanin or simply Red Morris, reflecting his personal connections and relationships.

Family and Siblings

Lord Killanin is one of four siblings, including his two brothers and one sister. His brothers are Mouse Morris, who is widely known and respected as a successful racehorse trainer in Ireland, and John Morris. His sister is Deborah Morris. This close-knit family shares a deep connection to Irish life and, in some cases, to the sporting world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lord Killanin

Who is George Redmond Fitzpatrick Morris?

He is the 4th Baron Killanin, an Irish film producer born in 1947, known for his work in the film industry and for hailing from a historically significant Irish family.

What is the "Tribes of Galway" connection?

The Morris family is one of fourteen prominent merchant families who historically dominated Galway city's political and commercial life in Ireland, known as 'the Tribes of Galway.'

What was Lord Killanin's father's notable role?

His father, Michael Morris, the 3rd Baron Killanin, served as the sixth President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the global governing body for the Olympic Games.

What is Redmond Morris's professional credit?

He is usually credited as Redmond Morris in his film productions, distinguishing his professional work from his full formal title.

What are some films he worked on as production manager?

He worked as a production manager on films such as The Draughtsman's Contract and Gorky Park before transitioning into overall production and executive roles.

Who is Mouse Morris?

Mouse Morris is one of Lord Killanin's brothers and is a well-known racehorse trainer in Ireland.