Cillian Murphy has won an Oscar for his role in Oppenheimer. 

The film about theoretical physicist J Robert Oppenheimer during World War II proved hugely popular with critics and cinema-goers alike, raking in close to $1 billion. 

After he became the first Irish person to win in the best actor category, Murphy described himself as “overwhelmed” and a “very proud Irishman”. 

"We made a film about the man who created the atomic bomb, and for better or for worse, we are all living in Oppenheimer's world, so I'd like to dedicate this to the peacemakers everywhere," he added. 

🏆Cillian Murphy calls for continued support for Irish artists after historic Oscar win

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The 47-year-old Cork man said making the film had been "been the wildest, most creatively satisfying journey" and signed off with a "go raibh maith agat".

Speaking to Newstalk's Henry McKean afterwards, Murphy said, "I think in Ireland, we're really great at supporting artists and I think we need to continue to support artists and the next generation of actors and directors.

"I think that's vitally important, that's all I have to say."

Success for Oppenheimer

In total, Oppenheimer won seven awards last night - including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor in a Supporting Role. 

After winning Best Director, Christopher Nolan thanked Murphy and his wife, producer Emma Thomas, as well as "those who have been there for me and believed in me my whole career."

The film was nominated in a total of 13 categories.

Main image: Cillian Murphy at the Oscars in Los Angeles. Picture by: AP Photo/Chris Pizzello.