Dramatic Exit for Anto Collins: Fair City Star Paul Ronan Reflects on Shocking On-Screen Death
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Teh final scenes for longtime Fair City character Anto Collins were a mix of sadness and exhilaration, according to actor Paul Ronan, who portrayed the conflicted Carrigstown resident. Collins met his end in a shocking twist during Friday’s episode of the popular RTÉ One soap, felled by an accidental punch from fellow cast member George McMahon.
Ronan, 60, revealed that while he didn’t initiate his departure from the show, he was “happy enough to trust the writers” to craft a memorable exit. The storyline leading up to his character’s demise included a dramatic act of arson – setting fire to the Rafferty development in an attempt to resolve his daughter Hayley’s financial difficulties. He explained that a previous storyline involving a lengthy period of his character being on the run allowed for flexibility, and he was later approached for a six-week arc culminating in his character’s final appearance.
the actor, who is also the father of Hollywood star Saoirse ronan, embraced the element of surprise in the storyline. “I like to be surprised within the job,” he said,adding that McMahon’s character,Mondo,delivered an unexpected blow.”I thought my character was going to kill himself – I was kind of guessing myself – but little did I know good old Mondo was going to put my lights out forever.”
A Surprisingly Real Punch
The pivotal fight scene, which aired on Halloween night, proved to be a highlight of Ronan’s final weeks on set. He praised the dedication of his co-star, McMahon, and the stunt team in creating a convincingly realistic moment. According to Ronan, the impact of the punch was remarkably genuine. “His fist actually hit me; it was that close! It looked fully real.”
The success of the scene hinged on achieving authenticity.Ronan, a former kickboxer and karate practitioner, even took on the role of instructing McMahon on proper punching technique. “When we set it up, George didn’t really know how to throw a punch, so I had to show him. I told him, ‘When I push you back, just let it go.'” He emphasized the importance of natural movement, stating, “What really bugs me in fight scenes…is when it doesn’t look real.”
The scene involved a carefully choreographed fall, with Ronan landing on a padded area near the bar. He recounted the moment of impact: “There was a big thick mat behind me, and when George went to let the punch go, I looked up at him, he looked down at me, and we both knew we nailed it on the first take.”
A Fond Farewell
Despite the dramatic circumstances of his character’s death, Ronan described the atmosphere on set as “fun” and “very sad.” He expressed deep gratitude for the chance to work with director Eleanor Cunney, praising her sensitivity and care for the actors. “She’s got it all, really. She has the sensitivity, the way she looks after the actors, and really cares for them. She was the right one to do it.”
Ronan,who resides in Carlow,reflected on the close bonds formed with the cast and crew during his extended tenure on the show. “It was emotional for the six weeks running up to it…As I’ve been in this job longer than I’ve done any job – any kind of job ever – we are very close to each other.” He acknowledged the transient nature of acting but emphasized the unique connection fostered by the intense collaborative environment of a long-running soap opera.
The actor’s departure marks the end of an era for fair City, leaving viewers to reflect on the complex character of Anto Collins and the impactful performance delivered by Paul Ronan. Fair City airs on RTÉ One and the RTÉ Player on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
