GOING WILDE
She’s a super agent whose A-listers include Oscar winners Kate Winslet, Penelope Cruz and Cate Blanchett, but Hylda Queally now has an award of her own after being recently recognized by the U.S.-Ireland Alliance for having “succeeded brilliantly in what is known to be a very tough business.”
Although her clients seem to chalk up awards year after year, Hylda was reluctant to accept one for herself.
“I had to work very hard to convince her to allow us to honor her,” Alliance President Trina Vargo said. “She’s a very private person who is focused on those she represents.”
But Trina had a little help from people in high places, and we’re not talking Hollywood.
“One can never underestimate the influence of Irish mothers,” Trina quipped. “I think it was Hylda’s mother who really closed the deal for me.”
“The Reader” star and Academy Award winner Kate Winselet was on hand to make the presentation at the Wilshire Ebell Theater.
“I have a very long speech,” Kate told the crowd, “and it’s not about me.”
Hylda’s fete was just one part of the annual program called “Oscar Wilde: Honoring the Irish in Film.” Actor Brendan Gleeson also received a specially designed “Oscar” trophy. He’s been busy working on “Green Zone” with co-star Matt Damon. Brendan’s other credits include “Gangs of New York,” two “Harry Potter” films and “Braveheart,” featuring Malibu’s Mel Gibson. Brendan has also just wrapped “Into the Storm” for HBO, a production in which he plays legendary British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
Third on the list of honorees was Jonathan Rhys Meyers, who has been steaming up the television screen through his role as Henry VIII in “The Tudors.”
“Desperate Housewife” star Dana Delany presented the award to Morgan O’Sullivan, who accepted on his behalf.
“Hylda, Brenden and Jonathan are representative of the myriad talents in the Irish film community,” Trina said. “We are honored to have the chance to celebrate their many successes.”
The U.S.-Ireland Alliance works to foster strong ties between America and the Emerald Isle. Its annual Oscar Wilde event recognizes Irish excellence in the art and entertainment industries. Previous winners include famed music man Van Morrison, producer James L. Brooks, screenwriter Terry George and Oscar-winning scribe Bill Monahan.
The evening wrapped up on a high note with performances by Gemma Hayes, Laura Izibor and Republic of Loose. Between the well-deserved honors, festive music and more than a wee bit of merriment, there was no doubt that Irish eyes were smiling all around.
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