Barry Keoghan Still Haunted by Late Mother’s Cries for Money Amid Heroin Addiction

Barry Keoghan Reflects on Mother’s Drug Struggles and Childhood in Foster Care

Barry Keoghan has opened up about the deep scars left by his mother’s heroin addiction and his experiences in foster care. The actor, who lost his mother to a heroin overdose at the tender age of 12, was placed in foster care at just 5. By the time he reached 9, he had already transitioned through over a dozen different homes.

In a candid interview on The Louis Theroux Podcast, Barry shared some haunting memories from his past. He vividly recounted moments when he and his younger brother Eric would listen from their beds as their mother pleaded for help through the letterbox, desperate for money to feed her addiction. “That haunts me. That was one of the last times I heard her voice,” Barry admitted, reflecting on the emotional weight of those moments.

The Irish actor’s childhood was marked by upheaval. After being moved frequently to different foster homes, Barry and Eric were eventually taken in by their grandmother and aunt when he was 9. They lived with their older sister Gemma in a cramped two-bedroom house in Dublin’s economically challenged Summerhill. Tragically, Barry’s mother passed away just three years after they moved in with their relatives.

Barry spoke affectionately of his mother, describing her as a beautiful woman who fell victim to the rampant heroin epidemic in their community. He noted that it wasn’t just his mom who struggled; addiction ravaged many families in his neighborhood. “It’s sad to see the deterioration of people around,” he remarked, highlighting the toll that addiction takes not only on individuals but also on the fabric of family life.

In recounting his difficult experiences, Barry emphasized that he holds no resentment towards his mother, recognizing her addiction as a disease. He reflected on how her struggles and their subsequent separation created trust issues in him, explaining, “When you get attached to a family and then have to move again, it’s hard to trust.” It was evident that the emotional scars from his childhood continue to affect him today, though he is addressing these issues through therapy.

Despite the challenges of his upbringing, Barry has always sought to turn his story into a source of inspiration for others. He expressed frustration with how his life story is often framed in a “pity” context. “That’s not what I’m looking for,” he clarified. “I want to inspire kids who may feel like they have no chance. You can achieve whatever you set your mind to.” He captured this sentiment poignantly during his acceptance speech for the Best Supporting Actor BAFTA in early 2023, dedicating his win to his mother and to the children dreaming of a better life from his hometown.

As he rises in the film industry, Barry remains committed to giving back. He revealed plans to collaborate with Olympic boxer Kellie Harrington to establish a youth center in Summerhill. The aim is to provide local children with a nurturing environment and support, encouraging them to pursue their passions and succeed in their endeavors.

For those facing similar struggles, Barry’s story serves as a reminder of resilience, hope, and the potential for change. If you or someone you know needs help with substance abuse, reaching out to resources can be a critical step toward recovery.