Richard Harris: From IRA Supporter to Target, Son Reveals

Jared Harris, son of renowned actor Richard Harris, has revealed his father's complex relationship with the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and the cause of Irish unification. The 63-year-old actor, known for his roles in "The Crown", "Mad Men", and "Chernobyl", shared insights into his father's changing views and the consequences that followed.

Richard Harris, born in Limerick, Ireland, in 1930, initially supported the Provisional IRA from 1973 to 1984. This period coincided with the height of The Troubles, a conflict in Northern Ireland that lasted approximately 30 years, from the late 1960s to 1998.

Jared Harris explained that Irish independence was a highly sensitive topic during his childhood. He stated, "There were topics of conversation that you learned to avoid because he didn't have a filter when he was talking about it." The younger Harris described the issue as "explosive" due to the ongoing IRA campaign.

However, Richard Harris's perspective shifted dramatically over time. Jared Harris revealed, "His point of view changed, and he actually came out in the news and told the Americans to stop giving money to Noraid because it was being used to blow people up." Noraid, founded in 1970 in the United States, was an organization that supported Irish reunification.

This public denouncement of the IRA's methods had significant consequences for the elder Harris. According to his son, Richard Harris found himself on the IRA's hitlist, a development he reportedly "took as a kind of badge of honour."

"He felt very strongly about Irish unification, and would speak openly about it in support of the movement."

Richard Harris's career spanned both film and music. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role in the 1963 film "This Sporting Life" and later gained worldwide recognition for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in the first two Harry Potter films. He also appeared in the epic historical drama "Gladiator" in 2000, playing the role of Marcus Aurelius.

The actor's journey from IRA supporter to critic reflects the complex nature of Irish politics during The Troubles. It wasn't until 1998, with the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, that a major step towards peace in Northern Ireland was achieved.

Richard Harris passed away in 2002 at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy that extended beyond his artistic achievements to include his evolving political stance on one of Ireland's most contentious issues.

Jared Harris, following in his father's footsteps, has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. His roles in critically acclaimed series such as "Mad Men" and the historical drama "Chernobyl" have solidified his position as a respected actor in his own right.

The revelation about Richard Harris's relationship with the IRA provides a unique perspective on a tumultuous period in Irish history, highlighting the personal risks and changes of heart that could accompany public figures who spoke out on such sensitive issues.