David McCullagh Explores Éamon de Valera’s Complex Legacy

A new two-part documentary series, Dev: Rise and Rule, directed by David McCullagh, delves into the life and legacy of Éamon de Valera, one of Ireland’s most polarizing political figures. The series, which premiered on RTÉ One on March 15, 2025, coincides with the 50th anniversary of de Valera’s death. It offers a personal perspective on a leader who shaped modern Ireland, but critics question whether it effectively unravels his complex identity.

The documentary presents a blend of historical analysis and personal narrative, allowing McCullagh to explore de Valera’s background with a familiar lens. Known for his long tenure at RTÉ, McCullagh brings a conversational style to the subject, steering clear of conventional talking-head interviews that often characterize similar projects. Instead, he embarks on a journey that begins in New York, where the circumstances surrounding de Valera’s birth are scrutinized.

McCullagh investigates claims regarding de Valera’s parentage, particularly the assertion that his father was a Spanish artist, Juan Vivion de Valera. After extensive archival research, McCullagh reveals that no official records confirm the existence of this figure, leaving viewers to ponder the implications of such uncertainty. He acknowledges, “There is a lot of mystery” surrounding de Valera’s origins, which adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative.

As the first episode unfolds, it maintains a lively pace, engaging viewers with McCullagh’s charisma. The documentary opens with poignant footage of de Valera’s funeral on O’Connell Street, setting a reflective tone before McCullagh transitions into contemporary discussions about de Valera’s legacy.

Despite the engaging presentation, the series falters in its final moments, when it turns to a public symposium held at Dublin Castle. Here, various contributors express their views on de Valera, but their commentary lacks depth, often veering into partisan territory. The absence of nuanced perspectives leaves the audience craving a more thorough exploration of de Valera’s impact on Irish society.

Critics have noted that while McCullagh’s ambition to tell the story of de Valera is commendable, Dev: Rise and Rule ultimately does not advance the understanding of de Valera as both a politician and a person. Despite McCullagh’s efforts, de Valera remains an enigma, a figure whose legacy is steeped in both adoration and condemnation.

In the closing moments, McCullagh admits, “Decoding Dev is no easy task.” Fifty years after his passing, the complexities of Éamon de Valera continue to challenge historians and commentators alike, illustrating the enduring relevance of his role in shaping Ireland throughout the 20th century.

As McCullagh prepares to transition to his new role as the presenter of RTÉ Radio 1’s Today show, the success of this documentary may reflect his ability to engage with a contemporary audience. While Dev: Rise and Rule may not have fully decoded the legacy of Éamon de Valera, it serves as a testament to the ongoing dialogue about a leader whose life continues to evoke strong opinions and emotions.