Good news: Dublin, Ireland — One of the city’s most iconic sons, Paul David Hewson, better known to the world as Bono, is being immortalized in bronze with a long-awaited statue to honor his extraordinary contributions to music, activism, and Irish culture. The unveiling of the statue, set to take place this summer in……
DUBLIN, IRELAND — One of the city’s most iconic sons, Paul David Hewson, better known to the world as Bono, is set to be immortalized in bronze with a long-awaited statue to honor his extraordinary contributions to music, activism, and Irish culture. The unveiling of the statue, scheduled to take place this summer in central Dublin, marks a historic moment of recognition for the U2 frontman, whose influence has transcended borders for more than four decades.
The announcement was made this week by the Dublin City Council in collaboration with the Irish Arts and Heritage Committee, confirming that the life-size bronze statue will stand proudly on Grafton Street, near the bustling heart of the city that shaped Bono’s early years. Designed by acclaimed Irish sculptor Patrick O’Connell, the monument will depict Bono mid-performance — microphone in hand, eyes lifted skyward — capturing both his passion for music and his spirit of hope that has inspired millions around the world.
“Bono represents more than a musician,” said Councillor Fiona Byrne, chairperson of the Dublin Cultural Committee. “He represents Ireland’s voice on the world stage — a voice of compassion, creativity, and courage. This statue is not just a tribute to an artist but to a man who has used his fame to fight for justice, peace, and unity.”
The unveiling ceremony, set for July 27, 2025, is expected to draw thousands of fans, dignitaries, and fellow musicians. Special performances are being planned, and U2 themselves are rumored to make a surprise appearance to celebrate the occasion. Sources close to the band have hinted that Bono is both “deeply honored and humbled” by the gesture, though he reportedly joked that “seeing yourself in bronze makes you feel a bit too ancient for comfort.”
The statue’s design has been in development for over two years, with O’Connell revealing that it was inspired by U2’s legendary 1987 Joshua Tree Tour, a moment that defined both the band’s global identity and Bono’s legacy as a performer. “I wanted to capture the moment when music becomes more than sound — when it becomes emotion, movement, and meaning,” O’Connell said. “Bono has that rare ability to connect with people — from stadiums to street corners — and I wanted this sculpture to reflect that connection.”
Bono’s impact on Irish culture and global activism cannot be overstated. As the charismatic lead singer and lyricist of U2, he helped transform the band from Dublin dreamers into one of the most successful and socially conscious rock groups in history. Beyond his music, Bono’s humanitarian work through initiatives like DATA, (RED), and ONE Campaign has brought global attention to poverty, disease, and human rights issues, earning him nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize and numerous humanitarian honors.
“Bono has never forgotten where he came from,” said Eamon Dunne, a longtime Dublin resident and U2 fan. “He put Dublin on the map in a way few others ever could. This statue is long overdue — it’s a reminder that one of our own changed the world.”
The statue will join a growing list of Dublin landmarks celebrating Irish icons, including tributes to Phil Lynott, Luke Kelly, and Oscar Wilde. The City Council hopes it will become a new cultural landmark for locals and tourists alike — a place where music fans can reflect on Bono’s legacy and the enduring power of Irish artistry.
In a brief statement shared on U2’s official website, Bono wrote:
“Dublin has always been my compass — it’s where every song begins and ends. To be honored here, in the city that raised us, means more than words can say. This isn’t just about me — it’s about every Irish artist who dares to dream.”
As the countdown to the unveiling begins, excitement is building throughout Ireland and beyond. For fans who have followed Bono’s journey from the streets of Cedarwood Road to the stages of the world, the bronze monument stands not only as a symbol of musical greatness — but as a tribute to an enduring message of hope, unity, and the belief that one voice can change the world.