The Hartnett name appears in many forms: Harney, O'Harney, Hartney, Harnedy, Haherny and more. The surname is derived from the Irish O hAthaire, which is thought to be derived from the Gaelic word athardha, meaning paternal. The ancient Hartnetts resided in Connacht (the region of Ireland comprised of Galway, Mayo, Leitrim, Roscommon and Sligo). One of the most famous Hartnetts of our day is Josh Hartnett, an American actor who has starred in films such as "Pearl Harbor" and "30 Days of Night." Hartnetts are accomplished in the field of writing as well. Michael Hartnett, an Irish poet, Sonya Hartnett, the Australian author and P-P Hartnett, a British writer and photographer, are all known for their work. In the world of sports, Gabby Hartnett was a famous Major League Baseball catcher with the Chicago Cubs in the 1930s, while Jimmy Hartnett is a former professional Irish footballer in the 1950s. Hartnetts are business-savvy as well. Limerick-born John Hartnett is Palm, Inc.'s Senior Vice President.