Cillian Murphy has shared that he was “having a cup of tea” when he learned of his Oscar nomination.

In true Irish fashion, Cillian Murphy was enjoying a simple cup of tea when he learned of a momentous achievement in his acting career—his first Oscar nomination.

The celebrated actor, who earned this recognition for his portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer in Christopher Nolan’s biographical film Oppenheimer, shared with The Irish Times that he was at his parents’ home in Cork, Ireland when the life-changing news arrived.

“I was at home in Cork, in my parents’ kitchen… So I heard when the phone started pinging… It was just by coincidence I happened to be at home,” Murphy revealed. “I was with my parents and my wife (Yvonne McGuinness). It felt like the right place to be.”

Murphy went on to describe the calm and modest scene in which he learned about his prestigious nomination: “We were just having a cup of tea, and then my mum brought out the cake—so we had tea and cake. So it was nice.”

This understated moment encapsulates the grounded nature of the Peaky Blinders star, even as he received one of the highest honors in cinema. Despite his numerous accolades, including critical acclaim for roles in films like 28 Days Later and Inception, this was the first time Murphy had been nominated for an Academy Award.

Reflecting on his journey, Murphy expressed gratitude for the connection Oppenheimer has made with audiences worldwide. “I feel lucky to be in a film that’s connected with people in the way it has. I’m 48 and I’ve been doing it for 28 years now, so I think I can understand how significant it is.”

Murphy’s performance as the conflicted and brilliant physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer has been hailed as a career-defining role, with many considering it his best work to date. The film delves into the life of the man who spearheaded the development of the atomic bomb during World War II, and Murphy’s nuanced portrayal brought both emotional depth and intensity to the screen.

In a twist of poetic justice, Murphy’s talent and dedication were further validated when he went on to win the coveted Oscar for Best Actor, solidifying his place among the greatest talents in modern cinema.

For the actor, it all started with tea, cake, and a supportive family by his side—a perfect reflection of the humility and grace with which Cillian Murphy has navigated his remarkable career.