Entertainment

Bill Murray Reflects on Fame and Family in New Irish Golf Docuseries

By Lizzie Hyman Lizzie Hyman Lizzie Hyman is a Staff Writer for PEOPLE. She joined the brand in 2022. People Editorial Guidelines Published on October 31, 2026 09:25AM EDT

Paramount+ is now streaming "A Course Called Ireland," a six‑part docuseries that follows 76‑year‑old Bill Murray and author Tom Coyne as they travel across Ireland playing golf. Joined by friends Chris O’Dowd and Jason Kelce and two of Murray’s brothers, the series explores the actor’s Irish heritage and his personal reflections on more than five decades of fame.

The show reveals that Murray grew up as one of nine siblings, learning his comedic craft at home by competing with his brothers to make the family laugh. His youngest brother Joel, who joins the trip later, notes that Bill was always a little goofy and that many of the characters that appeared on "Saturday Night Live" were created in their kitchen and dining room.

During a bathroom break in Ireland, Murray is approached by a crowd of fans asking to take photos. When asked how he handles the constant requests, he says he once thought autographs were the worst thing that ever happened and that he would have liked to have that era back. He now accepts the situation, saying, "I just jump in and go… I take the camera. I take the picture."

Murray also reflects on the effects of long‑term fame, comparing it to a one‑cell organism that eventually collapses after repeated pokes. When asked if fame brings him happiness, he answers, "In a word, no," adding that it is not easy but has led him to the place he is today.

He acknowledges a positive side: the goodwill from people who say his movies made them laugh during tough times. He says, "The one big positive is there’s a lot of goodwill out there from people who think, ‘Hey, you know what? Your movie made me laugh when I was having a really lousy time.’ I’ve heard that a lot of times and it feels great."

Murray’s relationship with golf dates back to his childhood, when he caddied with his brothers to help his mother pay the bills after his father died when he was 17. Golf has become a tradition that keeps the family together, he says.

The series also shows Murray’s spontaneous side, including gatecrashing bachelor parties, singing karaoke, busking in parks, and serving drinks at a pub. Coyne, who narrates the final episode, describes Murray as an enigma who tests patience, rewards it, and reminds viewers why they made their plans in the first place.

"A Course Called Ireland" is now available on Paramount+.