Local Electrician Meets Hollywood Superstar!

Local Electrician Gary meets Hollywood Superstar, Mel Gibson, 30 years after working together on epic historical war drama ‘Braveheart’.

Braveheart is a 1995 American film directed and produced by Mel Gibson, who portrays Scottish warrior William Wallace.

The 30th anniversary of production recently took place in Trim, Co Meath Ireland where fans and extras from the film queued to get film posters and other memorabilia signed by the cast.

Gary, how did you get the job as an extra in Braveheart?

Back in 1994, when I was 16, I was a reserve in the army FCA (Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil) the previous name for the reserve force of the Irish Army. The Braveheart production team reached out to the reserves and asked them if they would be interested in being extras for the battle scenes.

What are your favourite memories of that time?

We would be up at 4am, go into wardrobe, and get our face covered in peat moss to get the dirty look. We would then go to armoury to take up the arms. I remember it was one of the hottest summers and sitting about for hours in battle uniform.

Mel Gibson would check the line formations. He was a skilled horseman and would go up and down the lines making sure everything was perfect. I was caught wearing a watch and others forgot to take off their jewellery. The craic in the barracks at night was great fun. My friend Vinnie McConnell, who I have known since we were very young lads, was also there. It was good to share that experience with him.

How was it meeting Mel Gibson?

It was great. Vinnie and I had rare Panavision coloured photographs from the set of Braveheart. When Mel heard we had the photos he asked to meet us. When he saw the photos, he said, ‘oh my god, the Panavision camera!’ Panavision cameras were used to shoot various scenes in the film.

Did you do any more film work?

The production company for Saving Private Ryan, a film starring Tom Hanks and directed by Steven Spielberg, were looking for extras but we were not available.
I did however work as a runner on MBC’s Good Morning America with Katie Couric. I met famous Irish singer Mary Black and was also part of the audience for the Jerry Springer show.
When did you train to become an electrician?
I started my apprenticeship in the late 90’s so over 25 years ago!

What brought you to GA?

I came to GA about 20 years ago as I read and heard that Alicante was a great place to be. I was happy to try it; I never thought I would still be here 20 years later!

Best thing about living and working in GA?

There are many things. I met my lovely wife Emma here. She is from Limerick and I am from Dublin. We have very good friends here. I love the area, the fact we are by the sea and close to the airport. I absolutely love Spanish food, the people, the language and the different mix of nationalities.

What is new with your business?

I am continuing to help serve Gran Alacant and surrounding areas with all their electrical needs. And NOW Solar Panel Installations for homes, business and offices! Professionally installed with warranty, license and an amazing aftersales service!

Contact Gary today for a no obligation estimate and of course any Electrical needs!