From Ireland to the Big Screen: The Unstoppable Journey of Kiera McNamee

From law, yoga, and hairdressing to modelling, acting, and entrepreneurship, Kiera McNamee’s journey is anything but ordinary. An Irish-born creative now based in York, she has built a multi-faceted career powered by resilience, reinvention, and a refusal to be limited by setbacks. With major film roles ahead and a growing presence in fashion and entertainment, Kiera shares how every twist in her path has shaped the life she’s building today.

“Every setback in my life became the doorway to a new opportunity.”

Your journey spans so many industries — hair, law, yoga, modelling, and acting. How would you describe your path so far? Why did you move from Ireland to York?

My journey has been one of constant reinvention. I became a serial entrepreneur in my early 20s after seeing how deeply the 2008 economic crash affected my family’s businesses. That experience taught me resilience and gave me a mindset where I never give up. Every setback in my life has led to a new opportunity — failure has always been the doorway to success for me.

I moved from Ireland to York because my modelling career had grown significantly, with many brand deals coming from London and across the UK. After Covid, being closer to London made sense, especially for work. My husband, Paul, is from Newcastle and has built a long-standing career in the entertainment industry, so settling in the UK felt like a natural next step.

Since moving, life has transformed in the best way. I represented York in a beauty pageant in 2025 and was crowned Mrs Galaxy York, placing 8th overall. The support from the local community was incredible. I’ve also expanded my modelling work, completed a degree in SFX, TV and Film at York College & University Centre, and stepped into acting roles in upcoming films. Sometimes I still have to pinch myself — it feels surreal.

What is it like sharing life with your husband, Paul Lytton, in the entertainment world?

Life with Paul is exciting, but also very grounded. We don’t see ourselves as anything other than normal people. Paul is incredibly talented, but also humble, and we balance each other really well both personally and professionally.

Show business isn’t as glamorous as it looks — it’s long hours, constant travel, and meeting new creative teams every day. But we support each other through it all. Paul inspires me constantly, and I would be incredibly proud if any future children grew up to be like him.

At home, we’re very family-oriented. We love simple things like walks with our dog Lucy and spending time with loved ones. Paul is naturally shy off-stage, despite being a performer, and that keeps our life very balanced. We respect each other’s work, and that understanding is key when you both live in the spotlight.

How did your modelling career begin, and what has been your most memorable moment?

It all started by accident. I never planned to model or act, even though people suggested it for years. A photographer in Dublin invited me to a Christmas shoot, and from that moment, things just took off. Other photographers saw my work, bookings followed, and eventually I built a strong social media presence.

I was signed by two London agencies and gained TV opportunities before choosing to work independently. One of my most unforgettable experiences was working the red carpet at the Venice Film Festival — it was surreal. People were asking for photos and autographs, and I felt incredibly proud representing Ireland while wearing designs by Asta Jakubson.

You’ve recently moved into acting — how did that happen, and what excites you most about it?

Acting also came unexpectedly. I’ve never done a major speaking role before, so it’s both exciting and nerve-wracking. I was discovered through my camera work and introduced to opportunities in film, including a lead role in Black Diamonds.

What excites me most is the training opportunity I’ve been offered at RADA in London — one of the most prestigious acting schools in the world. That support and belief from others is incredibly motivating.

I’ve also worked on other productions, including Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey 3, and I love learning from directors and watching the creative process unfold. Seeing myself on screen next year will be a very proud moment.

You’ve also appeared in Closing Time with The Tumbling Paddies — what was that experience like?

That was one of my favourite projects because I’m a huge fan of The Tumbling Paddies. Their music means a lot to me, having grown up with Irish music all my life.

Working with them was a joy — they are genuinely kind, grounded people. Acting alongside Pat Shortt was a real honour. He was professional, funny, and incredibly thoughtful on set.

What stood out most was the warmth of everyone involved. It felt like being part of a creative family. I also love that Irish productions carry such authenticity — there’s a real sense of heart behind everything they do.

“I believe success is about balance, not speed.”

With so many projects, how do you stay grounded?

I come from a very grounded family. My father was strict but deeply family-oriented — dinner together every evening was non-negotiable. He taught me discipline, humility, and respect.

Outside of work, I enjoy simple things like cooking, swimming, beach walks, and writing. I’m also finishing a book to pass life lessons on to my younger brother, which means a lot to me.

Meditation has also been key — I practice TM meditation daily, which helps me stay focused and calm. I believe success is about balance, not speed, and I always try to stay connected to who I am beyond my career.

What’s next for you, and how has your connection with Global Woman influenced your journey?

Meeting Mirela and becoming part of the Global Woman Network has been incredibly inspiring. It’s a space filled with real, driven women, and it has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

Right now, I’m focused on continuing my acting career, with films releasing next year — but I’m also looking forward to slowing down and focusing on becoming a mother. That feels like the most meaningful next chapter for me.

I believe in living a full life — balancing ambition with heart. I’ve had a beautiful journey so far, and I know the best is still ahead.