The Newman Building’s infamous Theatre L was the centrepiece for an
award ceremony in honour of actor Patrick J Adams. The Canadian, best
known for his star studded performance on ‘Suits’, was in Dublin to
accept the James Joyce Award from the UCD Literary and Historical
Society. Previous recipients include Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Reverend
Al Sharpton and Photographer Steve Schapiro. The Toronto born actor
began his career before progressing to hit TV shows such as ‘Lost’,
‘Pretty Little Liars’, ‘Cold Case’ and ‘Commander in Chief’. This was
not his first time in UCD. Adams last visited in 2013, receiving an
Honorary Life Membership from the Law Society.
At the beginning of his speech, Mr Adams recognised the honour he was
receiving and acknowledged the presence of his wife Troian Bellisario
who was sitting in the packed theatre. “Ireland I’m going to start
expecting an award everytime I come here” he exclaimed before
announcing the point of his speech- “leaving ones comfort zone”. The
actor, best known for playing lawyer Mike Ross in Suits, said acting
is “impossible” to do alone and that it is “a conversation in words
and in action”.
Mr Adams, who originally came from The Beaches area of Toronto, then
began to discuss his role on the programme saying that his character
Mike Ross “always believed in his own potential”. The Canadian also
expressed the network’s surprise at the extent to which the show
quickly took off and the frustration he felt following the death of
his on-screen granny.
Following an argument with the director he revealed that he “matured”
before later announcing he would not be taking part in another series
of the programme. The Toronto native divulged that he found himself
with “time and space” to consider his options.
Auditor Aisling Tully then opened the floor for questions where the
performer was quizzed about who he was closest to on the show. Mr
Adams said “it changed over the years”, explaining that himself and
Meghan Markle were close at the beginning. Following this he said “I
have totally different relationships with all of them”.
A question was then directed to him about his own politics where he
described himself as “opinionated” and said “nobody can not afford not
to be political” during these times when referring to President Donald
Trump. Mr Adams spoke about voting where he said “when everybody votes
all the good guys win”. This served as an important point for the
young people present in the theatre for his address.
The star then concluded his time with the L & H by giving away details
of his favourite shows which include ‘The Wire’, ‘Deadwood’, ‘Godless’
and ‘The Crown’. Mr Adams said that in his post-Suits life he hopes to
travel extensively with his wife.
The membership bestowed on Mr Adams recognised his contribution to
acting and the chamber had a great laugh at his stories and life
experiences. The lessons and advice given by Patrick J Adams will
resonate with all students present for many years to come and inspire
our generation to follow his lead in whatever career we ultimately
choose.
Cian Byrne – News Writer
