Michèle Forbes

Michèle Forbes hails from Belfast, Northern Ireland, where she pursued her studies in English and Psychology at Trinity College, Dublin. Her career began in the theater, where she served as a script reader for the esteemed Abbey Theatre. This role paved the way for her acting career with the Abbey Theatre Company, where she toured internationally with acclaimed productions such as *The Great Hunger* and *Dancing at Lughnasa*.

Forbes's film career is marked by her performance in the BAFTA-winning *Omagh*, directed by Paul Greengrass. Her portrayal earned her the Best Actress award at the Monte Carlo Television Festival and a nomination for Best Actress at the Irish Film & Television Awards, solidifying her reputation in the industry.

In addition to her work in film and theater, Forbes is an accomplished writer. Her short stories have garnered prestigious accolades, including the Bryan MacMahon and Michael McLaverty Awards. Her debut novel, *Ghost Moth*, received significant recognition, being shortlisted for the Newcomer of the Year at the Irish Book Awards, as well as the First Book Award at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. It was also nominated for several international prizes, including the Prix Escapades and the Prix des Lectrices Elle, and most recently, for the Ireland Francophonie Ambassador’s Literary Award in 2017.

Her follow-up novel, *Edith & Oliver*, was celebrated as one of the Sunday Times Books of the Year, further establishing her literary prowess.