Renowned Irish actress Brenda Fricker, who won an Oscar for her performance in the film “My Left Foot,” has passed away at the age of 81, as confirmed by her agent. Fricker, known for her roles in “My Left Foot” and “Home Alone 2: Lost In New York,” was remembered fondly by her agent Phil Belfield, who expressed admiration for her talent and the impact she had on the film industry.

Fricker’s career included appearances in various films and TV shows, such as “Casualty,” “So I Married an Axe Murderer,” “Angels in the Outfield,” “A Time to Kill,” “Veronica Guerin,” and “Inside I’m Dancing.” In 1990, she made history as the first Irish actress to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “My Left Foot,” alongside Daniel Day-Lewis.

The actress also portrayed the character of the ‘Pigeon Lady’ in the sequel to “Home Alone,” where she shared a heartwarming connection with Macaulay Culkin’s character, Kevin McCallister. The Pigeon Lady’s emotional backstory resonated with audiences, highlighting themes of trust and friendship.

Despite her successful career, Fricker expressed feeling overlooked in the industry in a 2024 interview, noting the lack of opportunities for older actresses. Born in Dublin, she initially pursued journalism before venturing into acting by chance. Her diverse roles, including in Ireland’s first soap opera “Tolka Row” and ITV’s “Coronation Street,” showcased her versatility on screen.

Fricker, who was married to Barry Davis for 15 years, was known for her love of Guinness, poetry, and playing snooker. Her spirited nature was evident even off-screen, as she once triumphed in a pool match against the crew of “My Left Foot.” Brenda Fricker leaves behind a legacy of remarkable performances and a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.