It may rank as one of the most common Irish surnames, but there is nothing common about the exploits of bearers of the proud name of Murphy both in Ireland and much further afield.
• Tracing a descent from the warrior kings of Leinster, they have played a key role at pivotal points in Ireland's turbulent history, while others have flourished at both home and abroad through a rich variety of pursuits.
• On the stage, Eddie Murphy is the American actor and comedian whose screen credits include Beverley Hills Cop and Trading Places, and who is also the voice of Donkey in the animated Shrek movies, while Cillian Murphy is the Irish actor whose credits include Batman Begins and The Trench.
