Jamie Dornan calls 2021 ‘the worst year’ of his life as the actor reflects on the loss of his father

Jamie Dornan has revealed losing his father to Covid in March made 2021 ‘the worst year’ of his life.

In an interview with The Telegraph, the 39-year-old actor explained he struggled to cope with all the praise he has received for his latest film projects, Belfast and The Tourist, as his father Jim Dornan’s passing has taken a great toll on him. 

‘It’s a strange thing to end the year with all this positivity… because on many levels it’s been the worst year of my life, and the hardest,’ the Irish leading man explained.

Dornan – who had not seen his father for 18 months before his death, due to the complications of lockdown and his filming schedules – also revealed that the family still hasn’t held a funeral but did not explain the reason for the delay. 

World renowned obstetrician Jim died in March aged 73 after contracting coronavirus.  

Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI confirmed the news on Twitter, writing: ‘Very sad news this morning on the passing of Professor Jim Dornan, a passionate patron, advocate and friend to all at @LAL_NI.

‘Jim was champion for so many small charities and causes in NI and that legacy will live on. Condolences to family and friends at this sad time.’

He was also devastated by the fact that Jim, whom he called a ‘beacon of positivity’,  would never get a chance to see his latest movie, Belfast.

The film, which takes place in the 1960s, follows the life of a working class Irish family and their young son’s childhood.

Dornan plays the role of Pa – a character he says was greatly influenced by his father – and infused with his personality.

Tragic: Jamie’s world renowned obstetrician father Jim has died aged 73 after contracting coronavirus

Dad’s influence: The actor is devastated that his dad will never get a chance to see his latest movie, Belfast, where he plays the role of Pa – a character greatly influenced by his father

The star also reflected on his role as rich BDSM enthusiast Christian Grey – in Fifty Shades of Grey and the following sequels – and how he’s handled the bad press and teasing that followed him after.

He revealed that despite getting frequently teased for taking the role, he doesn’t mind the jokes thanks to his thick skin, which he developed while growing up in Belfast. 

‘I’m from a place where taking the mickey out of each other is our common currency. It’s how we communicate – it’s how we show affection,’ the actor said.

He also joked that he didn’t understand why people would frequently ask him whether he was worried about being typecast after taking on the controversial role.

‘At the time, I was asked if I was scared of being typecast – as what? As a BDSM-loving billionaire? I think that’s a one-off. Nothing close to that has come my way again – I’ve barely worn a suit since,’ he said. 

No regrets: Dornan also spoke about playing Christian Grey, in Fifty Shades of Grey and the following sequels, saying he doesn’t mind getting frequently teased for taking the role