Fans of the Netflix global phenomenon Stranger Things are seeing a new side of star Amybeth McNulty after a deeply personal interview that is resonating with audiences across the United States and beyond. McNulty, who first captured hearts as the star of Anne with an E, recently appeared on Ireland’s iconic program The Late Late Show to share a heartbreaking revelation regarding her role as Vickie. For her American fans, the appearance on the long-running Irish talk show provided a rare, intimate look at the tragedy that shadowed her casting in one of the world’s biggest shows. McNulty revealed that her audition for Stranger Things was the final career milestone her parents were aware of before they both passed away.
The timeline of McNulty’s loss adds a layer of profound grief to her professional success. Her mother, Siobhan McNulty, passed away in November 2021 after a battle with cancer, and her father, Liam McNulty, died just two years later in December 2023. The actress shared that both of her parents had a “good feeling” about the Stranger Things audition, making her eventual casting a bittersweet victory. Because they were the last ones she shared the news with, the role has become a lasting tribute to their unwavering belief in her talent. This connection has turned her performance into a legacy project, fueled by the memory of the two people who supported her most.
The sacrifice her parents made for her career is a testament to their devotion. McNulty detailed how her parents uprooted their lives in Ireland to move to Toronto when she was only 10 years old so she could pursue acting opportunities in North America. This major move, which she described as “mental” but incredibly kind, was only possible because they were retired and dedicated their lives to her dreams. Without their willingness to leave their home behind, the world might never have seen her breakout performance in Anne with an E or her subsequent rise to fame on Netflix.
Even as she continues to thrive in the spotlight, McNulty remains vocal about the impact her parents had on her life. She has frequently used her platform to honor her father as a “quietly powerful” man and her mother as a source of immense pride. For a journalist covering the entertainment industry, McNulty’s story is a poignant reminder that the stars we see on screen are often navigating immense personal loss behind the scenes. Her journey from a young girl in Ireland to a fan-favorite in Hawkins is not just a story of fame, but a story of a family’s collective dream and the enduring bond between a daughter and her parents.