MATT DAMON has made his triumphant return to Ireland as work on his much-anticipated historical epic The Last Duel.
The Good Will Hunting star earned himself a special place in the hearts of the Irish people after it emerged he had remained on the Emerald Isle during lockdown.
Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, Damon had been in Ireland working on The Last Duel, the new film being directed by Ridley Scott and also starring Ben Affleck, Jodie Comer, Adam Driver, Michael McElhatton and Caoimhe O'Malley.
But rather than jet straight back to the US, he opted to remain in the idyllic seaside village of Dalkey with his family.
During that time, Damon was regularly spotted out and about in the local area, taking in the sights and happily posing for photos with star-struck fans.
Matt Damon in our castle today filming the new Ridley Scott epic “The last Duel”! Hollywood in Tipperary! pic.twitter.com/2pRwY1HNM5
— Kevin Sullivan (@Sully71) September 28, 2020
By the time he left, the Saving Private Ryan star had further endeared himself to locals by speaking about Dalkey in glowing terms during a surprise radio interview.
He also recorded a special message for a group of local school kids who had been unable to enjoy a proper graduation ceremony.
Hailed as an adopted son of sorts, Damon departed knowing he would be welcome back anytime.
Filming of 'The Last Duel' at Cahir Castle, Co.Tipperary on September 29th 2020. A star studded cast including Matt Damon, Jodie Comer and Alan Driver.👋😷🎬 #TheLastDuel 📸 @DebStudioTen / @GettyImages pic.twitter.com/tLmlqOVhxE
— Debbie Hickey 📸 🎥 (@DebStudioTen) September 30, 2020
So many were understandably overjoyed to see him out shooting scenes for The Last Duel in the historic town of Cahir.
Damon was seen laughing and smiling with his castmates and co-workers, while his distinctive mullet and beard combination was striking, to say the least.
The film’s vast crew have been staying in "bio bubbles" in the exclusive K Club in Co Kildare to ensure filming goes without a hitch.
Due to be released in October 2021, the film will depict the thrilling story of a knight ordered by France's King Charles VI to settle a dispute with his best friend by means of a duel – the Royally last sanctioned duel to ever take place.
Matt Damon and Jody Comer share a laugh between take during filming at #Cahir Castle today #Tipperary pic.twitter.com/GLgPQFq5ME
— Jonathan Ryan 🇺🇦 📷 🎙🚨 (@Tipperaryphotos) September 28, 2020
The movie is shooting at Cahir Castle and along Inch Field and an area overlooking the stunning River Suir.
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