Irish-Americans make their mark in hit HBO series

Julie Grates, Contibutor
October / November 2005

There has never been a shortage of Irish-Americans in the forever changing rotation of the actors, directors, writers and producers who make up Hollywood. Why, they have always been one of the most talented groups of people in the history of the film industry, whether on the big screen or television!

It is no surprise then that HBO’s new break-out show Entourage features Irish-Americans in various capacities. Both Kevin Dillon, the younger brother of Matt Dillon, and Kevin Connolly co-star in the series. Also, writer/co-producer Brian Burns, the brother of actor and director Ed Burns, was hired for the show’s second season.

The show chronicles the hot new actor Vincent Chase (Adrien Grenier), from Queens, New York, as he attempts to navigate Hollywood. He is joined by his entourage (hence the title), featuring his manager Eric (Kevin Connolly), his brother Johnny Drama (Kevin Dillon), and his best friend Turtle (Jerry Ferrara). The cast is completed with Jeremy Piven, who plays Vince’s agent, Ari, who at many times during the series comes off as heartless and power hungry.

Entourage did not enter its sophomore season quietly, since it has quickly become one of the most popular series on HBO. In fact the June 5(th) season premiere was the highest rated episode in the series’ history. Everything on the second season of Entourage has been bigger, from the show’s budget to more impressive guest stars. The show was shot in flashier places as well. This year, a scene from one of the episodes took place at a live U2 show.

For now the stars of the show are embracing their new celebrity and are getting used to being recognized more on a daily basis. “I was at a party in the Hamptons this weekend with some buddies I grew up with,” Kevin Connolly said to The New York Times in a recent article. “All of a sudden, they part the way for us to get in and it’s like, ‘What can we do for you?’ So, yeah, I guess the show is definitely registering.” ♦

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