FAREWELL TO A LEGEND: Christy Moore and Daniel O’Donnell Share Fond Memories of Brendan Grace Ahead of Funeral
The Irish entertainment world is preparing to say a final goodbye to one of its most beloved figures. Brendan Grace, the comedian, singer, and storyteller whose humor defined a generation, will be laid to rest on Monday following his passing in Galway after a short battle with lung cancer. He was 68.
As tributes continue to pour in, two of Ireland’s most respected musicians — Christy Moore and Daniel O’Donnell — have shared heartfelt memories of their late friend, capturing both the laughter and kindness that made Brendan Grace unforgettable.
Christy Moore, now 74, spoke warmly of his long-time friend during an interview on RTÉ Radio One with Marian Finucane. “He was fantastic company and a great singer,” Christy recalled, noting that Grace could burst into song at any moment. He laughed as he remembered touring with Brendan in Australia, where the funnyman’s love for food became legendary. “We were at a buffet, and while everyone else took a small, medium, or large plate, Brendan decided to fill a tray instead. The locals didn’t know what to think!”
But Christy’s memories extended beyond humor. He revealed that during a recent heart scare, Brendan was one of the very first to check in. “He came to see me in hospital,” Christy shared. “He wanted to know if I had enough money. That was Brendan — always caring, always thinking of others.” Though he admitted that they grew apart in later years, Christy added: “We got on well, and I will remember him with great love.”
Daniel O’Donnell, 57, also shared his memories of living “around the corner” from Brendan in Redgap, County Dublin, in the summer of 1992. He recounted an incident after a gig at The Point, when fans from England had gathered outside his house to take photos. “I looked out and saw someone bowing up and down on their knees as if a messiah was behind the gate,” Daniel said with a smile. “It was Brendan. I don’t know if the English fans knew who he was, but they were bemused. Brendan just knew how to make people laugh.”
For Daniel, Brendan’s warmth extended into family life. He remembered Grace’s special friendship with his mother in Donegal. “He loved her pancakes,” Daniel explained. “Even after I left Dublin, whenever Brendan was in the area, he would call in and she’d whip out the pan. That was the kind of man he was — kind, generous, and always welcome.”
Grace’s death notice on RIP.ie described him as “Ireland’s beloved entertainer, Liberty Boy and Grandmaster of Comedy,” reflecting both his deep roots in Dublin and his remarkable international reach. From his beginnings in Echlin Street to his years in Ballina/Killaloe and even Jupiter, Florida, his career spanned continents but never lost its Irish heart.
As preparations for Monday’s funeral continue, the tributes from Christy Moore, Daniel O’Donnell, and countless others underline a simple truth: Brendan Grace was more than a comedian. He was a friend, a singer, a storyteller, and a man whose laughter carried healing. His passing leaves a void in Irish culture, but his voice and humor will echo for generations to come.