News broke this week that Hollywood legend Bill Murray will soon be back on our screens in a brand-new BBC series all about golf in Ireland. The six-part show, Off-Course (working title), will follow the Ghostbusters and Groundhog Day star as he tours some of Ireland’s most iconic courses, soaking up the scenery and the culture along the way.
Many have spotted Bill out and about in Ireland recently – from filming at the Beach Bar in Strandhill with comedian Joanne McNally to mingling at a hurling match in Clare. While we don’t yet know all the stops on his latest adventure, we’re excited to see where this new series has taken him – and whether he has revisited some of his old favourites here in North Mayo, like Carne Golf Links!
A passionate golfer, Murray has travelled to Ireland many times over the years. One of his most memorable stops was right here at Carne Golf Links in Belmullet, a course loved by players across the world. Designed by the legendary Eddie Hackett, Carne is often described as one of the last great links of Ireland – carved into the spectacular dunes of the Erris Peninsula and overlooking the wild Atlantic Ocean.
Murray’s visit to Carne put a spotlight on what many already knew – this is golf at its purest. No glitz, no fuss, just breathtaking natural beauty, challenging fairways, and the warm welcome of the local community.
The Hollywood actor visited County Mayo in August 2021 to film the documentary series ‘The Links Life’ with author Tom Coyne, which involved playing golf at various Irish golf links, including Carne Golf Links. During his visit, Murray also supported the Mayo GAA team, entering a raffle for a signed Mayo jersey and expressing his support for the team with the phrase “Mayo for Sam”. He also made a public appearance at a Mayo hotel, where he serenaded guests.
While we’ll have to wait for the BBC series to air (broadcast dates are still to be announced), it’s exciting to see Ireland’s golf story being shared with the world once again. And for us here in Mayo, it’s a great reminder that Carne isn’t just a course – it’s an unforgettable experience, one that has attracted Hollywood royalty!
Have you spotted Bill out and about in County Mayo?