“U2’s Guitarist The Edge Officially Granted Irish Citizenship After Living in the Country for More Than Six Decades”
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“I suppose I’ve been a bit slow getting the paperwork done,” he remarked.
U2’s The Edge Becomes Irish Citizen After Over Six Decades in the Country
It’s a case of “better late than never” for U2 guitarist The Edge, who officially became an Irish citizen on Monday, June 23, after living in the country for 62 years.
Born David Howell Evans, the musician was among thousands welcomed at a citizenship ceremony held in Killarney, County Kerry. Speaking to reporters after the event, the 63-year-old joked, “I guess I’ve been a bit behind on the paperwork,” according to Irish news outlet The Journal.
Having moved to Ireland at the age of one from Essex, England, The Edge shared that the timing now felt especially meaningful. “I couldn’t be prouder of my country — for what it stands for and the direction it’s heading,” he said.
He praised Ireland’s current global leadership, adding, “It’s stepping up on the world stage in a way that really resonates with me. This feels like the perfect time to deepen my connection to this country.”
Evans noted that the application process was relatively simple. “There were many points in the past when I could’ve done this — it was mostly just a matter of filling out a form — but doing it now carries more weight and personal significance,” he reflected.
He emphasized Ireland’s stance on international cooperation and justice, pointing to the country’s support of institutions like the ICC and UN. “In these times, what Ireland stands for matters. It’s about standing up, speaking truth to power,” he said.
Describing the day as “monumental,” The Edge expressed pride in becoming a citizen alongside so many others.
U2, which formed nearly 50 years ago in Dublin with Bono, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr., has always had strong roots in Ireland. Interestingly, not all members were born there. Clayton, for instance, was born in Oxfordshire but raised in Ireland. He became a citizen back in 1989.
The band has long been known for addressing political themes in their music, often reflecting their deep connection to Ireland and its values.