Actor convicted of assault in line for award

AN actor who was convicted of assault has been nominated for a prestigious Irish Film and Television Award (IFTA).

Darren Healy was nominated for the first time in the best actor category for his role in a new Irish film called 'Savage', described as "an exploration of violence and masculinity".

In 2007, the actor, who is from Enniskerry, Co Wicklow, pleaded guilty to assaulting Philip Bryan causing him harm at Eamon Doran's pub in Temple Bar, Dublin. Mr Bryan later developed a blood clot on his brain and died. Doctors believed this clot was unrelated to the assault.

Last June the Court of Criminal Appeal replaced a three-year term imposed on Healy for the attack with a two-year suspended sentence.

However, Mr Healy (31) last night said he hoped coverage of the case would not stop him winning his category in which he faces stiff competition from leading Irish actors Colin Farrell, Stephen Rea and Ciaran Hinds.

"There was a lot of bad publicity. I took a year off after that because it was so bad," he said.

When asked if he regretted what happened, Mr Healy said: "Jesus Christ. Absolutely. Yes. Absolutely." His conviction has also added to controversy about the film he was nominated for.

Revenge

'Savage' -- directed by Brendan Muldowney and produced by Conor Barry -- has been nominated for six IFTAs. It tells the story of a Dublin man, who after being brutally beaten, seeks out his attackers for revenge.

"It's a really, really disturbing film and it makes Dublin look horrible. It's going to stir a lot of talk," Mr Healy added.