He's worked with Bad Bunny, Will Smith and even bonded with fellow 'nerd' Leo DiCaprio, but as he eyes Oscar glory, Kilkenny animator Nigel Tierney reveals the best - and WORST - thing about Mel Brooks

Irish animator Nigel Tierney, who has established a notable career in Los Angeles, is gaining attention once again with his latest project featuring comedy legend Mel Brooks. The Oscar-qualified animated short, "Addicted To It," co-directed with Federico Heller, highlights a collaboration between Tierney and Brooks that is proving to be a career milestone for the Kilkenny native.

Tierney's journey from Kilkenny to Hollywood is marked by a unique blend of technical prowess and artistic passion. Relocating to the United States in 2008, he leveraged his mathematical expertise to carve a niche in computer animation, working on major DreamWorks franchises such as "Shrek Forever After" and "Kung Fu Panda 3." His breakthrough came with the 2019 animated video for Lil Dicky's environmentally themed single "Earth," which featured vocal contributions from high-profile celebrities including Leonardo DiCaprio, Justin Bieber, and Ariana Grande.

The success of "Earth," which amassed hundreds of millions of views, opened doors for Tierney, bringing him into contact with Jeff Marx, the Tony Award-winning songwriter behind Broadway’s "Avenue Q." This partnership led to the creation of "Addicted To It," a cautionary tale addressing smartphone overuse. The short uniquely features Mel Brooks, who voices a villainous character, bringing his signature comedic flair to the project.

Working directly with Brooks, who remains active and sharp at 100 years old, was a profound experience for Tierney. Having admired Brooks' iconic films such as "Blazing Saddles," "Spaceballs," and "Young Frankenstein" from a young age, Tierney found the opportunity to collaborate with the comedy veteran deeply rewarding. Brooks’ humility and generosity on set left a significant impression, underscoring his enduring passion for comedy and storytelling.

Tierney has also reflected on the qualities that distinguish Hollywood’s top talents. His experiences collaborating with A-list figures like Leonardo DiCaprio and Will Smith reveal a shared commitment to excellence. Despite their fame and accolades, these artists approach their work with dedication and a refusal to simply "phone it in," a trait Tierney regards as common among true professionals.

Tierney’s relationship with DiCaprio, formed during the production of "Earth," extended beyond professional courtesy into shared admiration for animation as an art form. Both bonded over their appreciation for Studio Ghibli and the works of Hayao Miyazaki, revealing a mutual passion for the craft beyond the demands of celebrity.

His interactions with Will Smith further demonstrate Tierney’s ability to navigate Hollywood’s complex creative landscape. Initially brought in to support Smith’s daughter Willow on an animation project, Tierney found himself directing the actor’s voice work and later spearheading a music video for Smith’s son Jaden. The projects, although varied in outcome, showcased Tierney’s adaptability and the trust high-profile clients place in his direction.

Throughout his two-decade-long career, Tierney has maintained strong connections to his roots in Kilkenny, an emerging hub for animation through studios like Cartoon Saloon and Lighthouse Studios. Balancing family life with his professional endeavors, Tierney remains an active observer of the Irish animation scene, fostering ties that link his international success back to his origins.

Nigel Tierney’s trajectory from a small Irish town to Hollywood’s animation elite exemplifies a blend of perseverance, skill, and the ability to collaborate with some of entertainment’s most celebrated figures. With "Addicted To It" poised for Oscar consideration, his partnership with Mel Brooks not only highlights a remarkable cross-generational alliance but also reinforces the ongoing relevance of animation as a powerful medium for storytelling and social commentary.