In a touching reflection, Michael Sheen reveals his father's final thoughts about their hometown, Port Talbot, before his passing.
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Michael Sheen opened up about his father’s final moments and the profound connection they shared with the town of Port Talbot. The actor’s relationship with his father, Meyrick, was steeped in local pride, illustrating the deep roots that shaped Sheen’s identity.
A journey through memory
Born in Newport, Sheen’s life took him from Wales to England and back again. At just five, he moved to England with his family, but three years later, they returned to Baglan, Port Talbot. This town became a backdrop for his childhood, a place where his parents, Irene and Meyrick, built their lives, even as Sheen rose to fame in Hollywood.
“Every time I see the steelworks, I feel something indescribable,” he once admitted, a testament to how deeply Port Talbot resonated with him. His fondness for the town often brought him back to visit his parents, even amidst his busy career.
A heartbreaking farewell
Last year, tragedy struck when Meyrick passed away after a lengthy struggle with Alzheimer’s. Sheen was there, holding his father’s hand, alongside his mother and sister. It was a moment of reflection, a time to cherish their bond. “I just said, ‘I love you,’” he recalled, underscoring the simplicity and depth of their relationship.
In the wake of his father’s death, the community rallied to honor Meyrick, a beloved steelworker and local figure known for his Jack Nicholson impersonations. A mural was unveiled in Port Talbot, a tribute that left Sheen in awe. “It was amazing,” he said, recognizing the love and respect his father cultivated in the community.
Last words of wisdom
As Sheen recounted his father’s final words, he shared a powerful moment: “The last thing he said to me was about Port Talbot.” Even in his final days, Meyrick’s passion for his hometown shone through. Despite struggling with confusion, his message was clear. “He just said, ‘Get it done, Michael. Get it done.’”
This sentiment was more than a directive; it was a call to action, a reminder of the importance of community and legacy. For Sheen, it was a poignant reminder of where he came from and the values instilled in him by his father.
Legacy and remembrance
Michael Sheen, known for his roles in films like Frost/Nixon and The Damned United, emphasizes his Welsh roots. “My Welsh roots are everything,” he expressed, affirming that his identity is intertwined with his heritage. As a father himself, he now shares this legacy with his daughters, Lily, Lyra, and Mabli, ensuring that the memory of their grandfather lives on.
The mural of Meyrick serves not just as a tribute but as a way for future generations to remember him. It’s a symbol of family, community, and enduring love. Sheen hopes that every time his children pass by, they will recall the man who meant so much to many.
A community’s embrace
Port Talbot, with its rich history and vibrant community spirit, remains a central theme in Sheen’s life and work. His father’s legacy, intertwined with the town’s identity, will continue to resonate, bridging the past with the future. As the actor moves forward, he carries with him the lessons learned from his father—strength, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his roots.
