With news breaking that a Sinéad O’Connor biopic is officially in the works, the RUSSH office has been buzzing with speculation about who could possibly step into the role of the late Irish icon.
Directed by Josephine Decker from a script by Stacey Gregg, the film will chart O’Connor’s early life and meteoric rise, exploring the talent, conviction, and controversy that made her one of the most compelling figures in music history. Which begs the question: who could embody both her firebrand defiance and her haunting vulnerability?
We’ve pulled together a dream roster of actors — from award-winning veterans to breakout stars — each with the range, presence, and fearlessness to bring O’Connor’s story to life on screen.
Saoirse Ronan
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We think Saoirse could tap into Sinead’s fire and vulnerability in the way she’s done in Lady Bird. She has that rare ability to make even the smallest shift in expression tell a whole story.
Rose Leslie
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Leslie was such a powerhouse as Ygritte in Game of Thrones, and we think she'd be damn near perfect as O'Connor. She's fearless and soft in all the right ways (and is only from neighbouring Scotland, so could probably master the accent pretty quick).
Jessica Barden
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Barden has that sharp, unpredictable energy she brought to The End of the F**ing World, making her a perfect fit for a character who thrives in the grey areas.
Carey Mulligan
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Mulligan’s layered performances in films like Promising Young Woman prove she can play charm, wit, and menace all at once.
Lucy Boynton
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Boynton’s ethereal screen presence isn't lost on us, and we've not seen her in nearly enough since her Bohemian Rhapsody breakout. She's both magnetic and mysterious – perfect for the role.
Rosamund Pike
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Few actors do icy and loveable quite like Pike. From Gone Girl to Saltburn, we know she's not to be messed with and we love her all the more for it.
Eve Hewson
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Hewson’s recent turn in Bad Sisters showed her knack for balancing humour with genuine heart. She’d bring grit and grounded warmth, making her characters feel fully lived-in.
Florence Pugh
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She's already shaved her head once for a role, so we can't see why Pugh would argue with doing it again. And for someone equally as involved in the activism space, she'd be a perfect candidate for the role.
Maisie Williams
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Williams’ post-Game of Thrones choices have shown her willingness to take risks. She’s got a quiet ferocity that would bring a unique, offbeat edge to the role – someone you underestimate at your peril.
