New NI Troubles series starring Gillian Anderson confirms Channel 4 release date

A new drama starring Gillian Anderson set during The Troubles in Northern Ireland has confirmed its release date - and viewers can catch the show on Channel 4 from next week. Trespasses is based on a Women's Prize-shortlisted novel by Louise Kennedy, and is set against the backdrop of the violence in 1970s Belfast.

It tells the story of a young woman called Cushla (Lola Petticrew) and a controversial barrister called Michael (Tom Cullen). Anderson plays Gina, Cushla's mother, and the cast is further bolstered by the likes of Blue Lights' Martin McCann, Oisín Thompson, Emily Taaffe, Barry Ward, Lisa Dwyer Hogg, Lorcan Cranitch, Frank Blake, Gary Lydon, and Lalor Roddy. Anderson previously played DSI Stella Gibson in The Fall, another critically acclaimed drama set in Northern Ireland.

The synopsis explains that the show is set in 1975 in a town outside Belfast: "Whilst working one night behind the bar of her family pub, serving a mixed crowd including the locally stationed soldiers, Catholic schoolteacher Cushla meets Michael, an older Protestant married man, who often defends IRA suspects and is friends with cultured Bohemians who enrage and intrigue Cushla."

While Cushla knows the relationship "spells all kinds of trouble" the pair are drawn to one another. The description adds: "In a place where loose lips cost lives and danger lurks in the shadows, amidst the fear and paranoia, this illicit affair between Cushla and Michael ignites and burns bright..."

Anderson, who also serves as executive producer, said she "fell in love" with the book. She explained: "I was immediately drawn to the tragi-comic creation that is Gina and couldn't resist when Louise asked me to play her."

Trespasses has been called a "beautifully observed, tense and deeply romantic love story" by the Head of Channel 4 Drama, Ollie Madden. He called Petticrew an "amazing new talent", adding: "We can't wait to bring this adaptation of Louise Kennedy's excellent novel to Channel 4."

The trailer was released last month, and viewers took to the comment section to share their thoughts. One wrote: "Looking forward to watching this! Great storyline, great cast - cannot wait!" While another said: "Those days were deep and I am glad I have learned more about this time and the people who struggled."

Filming wrapped in Belfast in December, Channel 4 revealed, and the series will be made up of four hour-long episodes. Trespasses has been adapted for the screen by Ailbhe Keogan, (known for Bad Sisters), and has been produced by Amanda Posey (known for Brooklyn) for Wildgaze Films.

Trespasses will premiere on Channel 4 on Sunday November 9th at 9pm.