Paul Mescal has been named on TIME Magazine’s 100 Next list of influential people.
The list features 100 rising leaders who are shaping the future of business, entertainment, sports, politics, science, health and more.
Paul, who shot to fame after landing a role in the TV adaptation of Sally Rooney’s bestselling novel Normal People, was listed in the artist category.
The 27-year-old was chosen alongside names such as The Crown’s Emma Corrin, Stranger Things star Maya Hawke and Game of Thrones star Bella Ramsey.
Fellow Irish actor Colin Farrell penned a tribute to Paul as part of his inclusion in the list.
The Banshees of Inisherin star said: “Why is it that the finest actors leave us with the sense that we know them. Even if they are – in life – unknown to us.”
“Paul Mescal exemplifies the answer to that question, for there is something indelibly honest about his work. Something that allows us a feeling of recognition. It’s not so much what he shows you, but instead what he makes of himself available for you to see.”
He continued: “There are things that an artist can grow into: craft, a deepening of the heart. But there is an honesty to some actors so intrinsic that it forms the foundation upon which all else grows.”
“The first time I saw Paul perform, what moved me was his ability to stand in silence and take in the world around him so I could experience it through him. I was riveted, and it has been the same in every performance since.”
“It is the sincerity of his every word and gesture that makes me so excited for what he’s yet to share with us.”
Paul’s inclusion on the list comes ahead of his upcoming roles in All Of Us Strangers with Andrew Scott, Foe with Saoirse Ronan, and the highly anticipated Gladiator sequel.
Check out the full TIMES100 Next list here.
