Ryan McParland – Favourite Things

Ryan McParland is an actor from Northern Ireland, who has starred in Derry Girls, Six Degrees and Calm with Horses. He was nominated for Best Actor by the Irish Times for his performance in Summertime in 2013 and previously toured Ireland in his one-man-show East Belfast Boy. He has recently starred in the live-action television series Halo, based on the hugely popular Xbox video game franchise. Produced by Showtime network and Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Television production company, Halo is available to watch now on Paramount+ and has just been renewed for a second season. 

These are a few of Ryan McParland’s favourite things…

Socks

I love a decent pair of socks. I remember getting a terrible flu years ago when I was on tour with a play in Ireland. I had one pair of runners and a few pairs of socks; it was snowing and the coldest I can remember in a long while. I spent Christmas in bed that year and swore I’d never be without a decent pair of socks again; whenever I’m travelling for work they’re the first thing that goes into the case.

Football

I grew up watching and playing football. It’s been a part of my life for so long. I try to play as much as I can when I’m not working, as it helps keep me fit as well as being super fun. I always try to find a sports shop wherever I’m working. When I can, I’ll buy a football and play on my own too.

Video Games

I vividly remember playing Formula One ’97 and Die Hard Trilogy as a kid. Whenever I had a day off school, I’d try to complete the boss missions on Die Hard. I’ve continued playing video games to this day and look forward to starting a new game whenever I finish a project. It’s always been my go-to to switch off and enjoy some time away. I love the experience of delving into a game, the challenges you face trying to complete a mission, and figuring out stuff. Batman: Arkham Asylum was one of the best games I’ve played in the last few years. I need to go back and play it again.

Hiking

I’ve been hiking a lot recently with my pilates instructor, Tommy. We’ve been doing some rock climbing too, which has been a lot of fun. I love being in nature, having grown up in the countryside. I love the physical aspect as well as the spiritual. I’ve even tried to squeeze in some pilates during the ascent. The feeling of the rain drizzling down from above, the coldness, and the fatigue is a very invigorating experience for me. I look forward to climbing more mountains in the future.

Music

I’m always playing music. I had a little MP3 player in high school that played a handful of songs. It was an incredible feeling to be able to play your own music anywhere you wanted. Nowadays, you can play music anywhere, but back then, people were only just getting music onto their phones. Last year I bought a new pair of Bose headphones which go with me everywhere. I love discovering new music, and I’ll listen to almost anything. 

Enjoyed Ryan McParland’s favourites? Explore last week’s Favourite Things here.