Sean Thornton is a fictional character from the classic film The Quiet Man, directed by John Ford in 1952. Portrayed by John Wayne, Sean is an American boxer who returns to his ancestral home in Ireland after a successful career in the United States. He seeks peace and a new life away from the violence of his past. In Ireland, Sean falls in love with Mary Kate Danaher, played by Maureen O'Hara. Their romance faces challenges, particularly from Mary Kate's brother, Will Danaher, who opposes their union. The film explores themes of love, tradition, and the clash between American and Irish cultures.