Top ten Irish people to celebrate this Christmas

In the spirit of Christmas IrishCentral gives thanks for those worth celebrating in 2010

MOLLY MULDOON,

IrishCentral.com Staff Writer

Published Thursday, December 16, 2010, 3:18 AM

Updated Thursday, December 16, 2010, 3:33 AM

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Olivia Wilde arrives at the 61st Primetime Emmy Awards

With her trademark red locks, the Quiet Man star recently posed for the latest Newbridge silverware line, showing the world that even in her retirement, she still has the star quality.

READ MORE- Maureen O'Hara gives some sage advice to Irish models

Olivia Wilde

Probably the hottest Irish-American star in Hollywood right now, Olivia Wild’s career continued to flourish this year. Having first rose to stardom playing the role of Dr. Remy Hadley in medical drama “House”, her latest film sees the Irish beauty transform herself to play the female lead of Quorra in “Tron Legacy”.

Born to Irish parents, the 26-year-old has spent a considerable amount of time in the Emerald Isle. Having studied at the Gaiety School of Acting in Dublin, she claims that was “instrumental to (her) success”.

READ MORE- Olivia Wilde is grateful for her Irish roots – SEE PHOTOS + VIDEOS

Gabriel Byrne

Another celebrated Irish actor, Gabriel Byrne has never forgotten his Irish roots. Outspoken about his views on Ireland’s ailing economy, the award winning actor makes regular trips to Ireland to donate his time to charities such as the Irish Hospice Foundation.

The “In Treatment” star was appointed as Ireland’s first and only cultural ambassador last March by the Irish Prime Minister.

The Rubberbandits

Becoming a Youtube sensation over the past week, the Limerick comedy duo have reminded us all the importance of laughter in times of hardship.

Their comedy single “Horse Outside” is a good lesson in cutting back on costs.

“X-Factor” star Mary Byrne was thrust into the public limelight this year when she appeared in the Simon Cowell’s talent show. The 51-year-old Dublin woman wowed judges with her performances on the show and made it to the final stages.

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laff1948 | Dec 17, 2010, 12:02 PM EST

We are blessed by the Irish Americans we have in the US. But this Christmas my US heart is in prayer for our Irish families on the Isle. Bless you all in a time of economic upheaval and political disappointment. We know how you feel and you are in our prayers. Wish I were there with you.

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irishwxman | Dec 17, 2010, 12:06 AM EST

I love how they call Olivia Wilde Irish American, and her "Irish Parents"...plural. Her father was born in London. He grew up in Ireland...and "Cockburn" is a Borderlands name. That's like calling a Japanese person born in Japan, but growing up in Ireland, an Irishman. Her mother is of German decent...as Redlich is a German name. SO While her pops gre up in Ireland, and that grants her dual citizenship....calling her an Irish American is not exactly true. She is slammin' hot though.

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fuerte181 | Dec 16, 2010, 07:27 PM EST

why aren't there pictures of them?

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greenferrett101 | Dec 16, 2010, 09:48 AM EST

I love this. I have emailed it to all my friends. What about Bono? No irish people seem to like him...?!

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