Dame Helen Mirren has a new cocktail in her name, which now serves as a tribute to her late stepson, Rio Hackford, who passed away in 2022. A celebrated actor, Mirren has a career that spans decades, with her latest role being the matriarch of the Dutton family in 1923. And she is also as much a matriarch in real life.
The drink was conceived in Pal’s Lounge, a bar owned by Hackford, who died of uveal melanoma at the age of 51. Mirren has been married to his father, director Taylor Hackford, for nearly 28 years, and now keeps Rio’s memory alive along with the rest of the family by doing a special thing for him. Let’s know all about it.
What’s Inside the Cocktail That Bears Helen Mirren’s Name
Helen Mirren in 1923 | Credits: Paramount+
The cocktail is named ‘The Helen F***ing Mirren,’ a moniker that captures the actress’s blend of British elegance, intelligence, and sass. The drink was crafted by the bartenders at Pal’s Lounge in New Orleans, a city with a deep personal connection to Mirren and her family.
Pal’s was owned by Rio Hackford, Mirren’s deceased stepson. But he wasn’t the one to name the cocktail. It came from bartenders Laura Walch and Charla Zot, who needed a name that was spicy and British, revealing as much in an episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Made with Darjeeling Liqueur, Earl Grey Tea, Vodka, Habanero, Lemon, and Honey, the spice and British taste complemented each other well, making the bartender duo name it ‘The Helen F***ing Mirren.’
It has since become a reminder to Mirren of her late stepson, whom she and her family still remember. She shared a ritual with PEOPLE that her family does to keep the younger Hackford’s memory alive:
“He loved the ocean. He loved going into the ocean, the Pacific Ocean here in Los Angeles. So we go to the ocean and the men in the family jump into the ocean to memorialize him.”
Therefore, now a tradition, Mirren swears to carry on and keep her dear late stepson etched in her memories forever. While not as popular an actor as his stepmother, Rio Hackford was an American actor known for roles in Treme and The Mandalorian.
Helen Mirren’s Journey of Love and Loss Beyond 1923
Dame Helen Mirren’s illustrious career has spanned over five decades, including her bold move joining the star cast of 1923, establishing her as one of the most respected and versatile actresses of her generation.
From her roots in the Royal Shakespeare Company to her bewitching presence in film and television, she has earned the coveted Triple Crown of Acting, including an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and multiple Emmy Awards.
YearTitleRoleRole Details1979CaligulaCaesonia A controversial early role as the wife of the Roman emperor, which showcased her fearless on-screen presence.1991Prime SuspectDCI Jane TennisonHer career-defining television role was as a tough, trailblazing female detective, for which she won multiple Emmy Awards.1994The Madness of King GeorgeQueen CharlotteA critical role that earned her an Oscar nomination, setting the stage for her later, more iconic royal portrayals.2001Gosford ParkMrs. WilsonHer Oscar-nominated performance was about a stoic housekeeper in Robert Altman’s ensemble murder mystery.2006The QueenQueen Elizabeth IIHer most acclaimed role for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress, portraying the monarch in the aftermath of Princess Diana’s death.2015Woman in GoldMaria AltmannA powerful performance as a woman fighting to reclaim her family’s artwork stolen by the Nazis, earning her a Golden Globe nomination.20221923Cara DuttonA return to television as the matriarch of the Dutton family, cementing her status as a formidable and commanding screen presence.2023BarbieThe NarratorA brief but hilarious comedic cameo where she served as the all-knowing voice of the film, breaking the fourth wall.2025MoblandMaeve HarriganThe matriarch of the Harrigan family
Helen Mirren is married to director Taylor Hackford, whom she dated for over a decade. The couple has often credited their long-lasting relationship to spending time apart due to their demanding careers, which keeps them pleased to see each other upon meeting.
For Mirren, the grief of her son led her to a mission to raise awareness about the disease. She has timely urged people to get their eyes checked regularly, quipping that early detection could have saved her beloved’s life.
What do you think about Helen Mirren’s heavy and heartfelt life journey? Let us know in the comments below.
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