Channel 4 has released the first trailer for ‘Trespasses’, a major new four-part drama based on Louise Kennedy’s acclaimed novel, shortlisted for the Women’s Prize in 2023. Set in 1970s Northern Ireland during the height of the Troubles, the series tells a gripping story of love, danger and moral conflict, with an exceptional cast led by Lola Petticrew (Say Nothing, Tuesday), Tom Cullen (The Gold, Weekend) and Gillian Anderson (Scoop, Sex Education).
Adapted by Ailbhe Keogan (Bad Sisters), ‘Trespasses’ follows Cushla (Petticrew), a young Catholic schoolteacher whose life is turned upside down when she meets Michael (Cullen), a married Protestant barrister known for defending IRA suspects. Against the backdrop of sectarian violence and social suspicion, the two embark on a passionate but perilous affair. Anderson plays Gina, Cushla’s sharp-tongued and chaotic mother, described as a “glorious wreck” constantly at odds with her daughter.
Directed by Dawn Shadforth (Mood, Adult Material), the series captures both the intimacy and the danger of a relationship unfolding in a town where “loose lips cost lives.” The trailer teases striking period detail, emotional intensity, and the uneasy atmosphere of a community divided by politics, religion and fear.
The cast also includes Martin McCann (Blue Lights), Barry Ward (Bad Sisters), Emily Taaffe (The Rising), Lorcan Cranitch (Bloodlands), Lisa Dwyer Hogg (The Fall), Frank Blake (Normal People), Gary Lydon (The Banshees of Inisherin), Oisín Thompson (My Left Nut), and Lalor Roddy (Bodkin).
Produced by Wildgaze Films (Brooklyn, An Education) in association with All3Media International, ‘Trespasses’ was filmed in Belfast with support from Northern Ireland Screen. Executive producers include Amanda Posey, Finola Dwyer, Louise Kennedy, Gillian Anderson, and Dawn Shadforth, with Maria Mulhall (The Night Caller, The Dry) producing.
‘Trespasses’ does not yet have an exact premiere date but will air in November 2025 on Channel 4 in the UK. If you want to keep track of this or any other shows, you can add them via our Never Miss system, and you’ll be notified when it gets a UK premiere date. Visit Never Miss.
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