Category Archives: Irish Television

Sharon Horgan on THE TOMMY TIERNAN SHOW

Sharon Horgan on THE TOMMY TIERNAN SHOW

Sharon Horgan on THE TOMMY TIERNAN SHOW

BAD SISTERS creator and star Sharon Horgan appeared on Wednesday’s THE TOMMY TIERNAN SHOW on RTÉ One where she spoke about navigating the entertainment industry as a woman, as well as finding a balance between her career and home lives. Horgan’s influence on contemporary comedy is undeniable, a testament to her sharp wit and a writer’s instinct for the painfully funny truths of modern life. From the raw, unflinching honesty of PULLING, which she co-wrote and starred in, to the critically acclaimed CATASTROPHE, a series that redefined the romantic comedy by injecting it with a healthy dose of grim reality alongside co-writer and co-star Rob Delaney, Horgan has consistently crafted narratives that resonate deeply. Her work on MOTHERLAND further cemented her reputation for exploring the unvarnished realities of womanhood, relationships, and parenthood, creating characters that are flawed, relatable, and utterly hilarious. She possesses a unique ability to weave uncomfortable truths into comedic gold, making us laugh while simultaneously wincing in recognition. Her ventures into production with Merman have also empowered other distinct voices, showcasing a commitment to expanding the landscape of intelligent, character-driven comedy beyond her own brilliant output.

Meanwhile, Tommy Tiernan has carved out a unique space in the crowded world of television hosting, particularly with THE TOMMY TIERNAN SHOW. What sets him apart is his audacious, and indeed brilliant, decision to interview guests without any prior knowledge of their identity or background. This unconventional approach transforms each episode into an unscripted, often profoundly intimate, and always unpredictable conversation. Tiernan’s innate curiosity, his genuine empathy, and his masterful ability to listen and react in the moment elevate these exchanges beyond typical chat show banter. He creates an atmosphere where vulnerability is encouraged, leading to moments of surprising honesty, profound insight, and often, uproarious laughter. It’s a high-wire act of improvised television, relying entirely on his quick thinking, his vast general knowledge, and his deep well of human understanding. The result is a viewing experience unlike any other, proving that authentic connection, rather than meticulously researched questions, is the bedrock of truly compelling television.

Liam Neeson, bringing his particular set of skills to comedy! 🤣

Get ready to see the Irish legend like never before in the new NAKED GUN, hitting theaters August 1st.

He`s nervous, Pamela Anderson`s "madly in love" with him, and we`re just here for the laughs!

New trailer at irishfilmtv.com.

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Liam Neeson, bringing his particular set of skills to comedy! 🤣 Get ready to see the Irish legend like never before in the new NAKED GUN, hitting theaters August 1st. He's nervous, Pamela Anderson's "madly in love" with him, and we're just here for the laughs! New trailer at irishfilmtv.com.

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🌟 Ruth Negga doesn`t just act – she transforms.

From her Emmy-worthy intensity in PRESUMED INNOCENT to her Golden Globe-nominated brilliance in PASSING, this Irish powerhouse continues to redefine what it means to inhabit a character completely.

Watch IN PROCESSS for Negga`s take on craft and the pursuit of creation!

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🌟 Ruth Negga doesn't just act – she transforms. From her Emmy-worthy intensity in PRESUMED INNOCENT to her Golden Globe-nominated brilliance in PASSING, this Irish powerhouse continues to redefine what it means to inhabit a character completely. Watch IN PROCESSS for Negga's take on craft and the pursuit of creation!

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Irish legend Sharon Horgan of BAD SISTERS fame recently sat down with the incredible Tommy Tiernan on The Tommy Tiernan Show! ✨

Horgan opened up about navigating the entertainment industry as a woman and finding that work-life balance.

Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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Irish legend Sharon Horgan of BAD SISTERS fame recently sat down with the incredible Tommy Tiernan on The Tommy Tiernan Show! ✨ Horgan opened up about navigating the entertainment industry as a woman and finding that work-life balance. Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 Domhnall Gleeson brings serious talent to Guy Ritchie`s globe-trotting adventure FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH!

From STAR WARS galaxies to treasure hunting expeditions, this Irish powerhouse continues to prove his incredible range. His mysterious billionaire character keeps you guessing until the very last frame ✨

Now streaming!

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🎬 Domhnall Gleeson brings serious talent to Guy Ritchie's globe-trotting adventure FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH! From STAR WARS galaxies to treasure hunting expeditions, this Irish powerhouse continues to prove his incredible range. His mysterious billionaire character keeps you guessing until the very last frame ✨ Now streaming!

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📢 #u2 frontman Bono and Zane Lowe just dropped a conversation that goes WAY beyond your average interview.

We`re talking deep dives into the soul of #SONGSOFSURRENDER, artistic vulnerability, and why even U2`s most iconic tracks needed a fresh look.

Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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📢 #u2 frontman Bono and Zane Lowe just dropped a conversation that goes WAY beyond your average interview. We're talking deep dives into the soul of #SONGSOFSURRENDER, artistic vulnerability, and why even U2's most iconic tracks needed a fresh look. Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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Pat O`Connor`s masterpiece CAL is back in Irish theatres Jun 13.

Helen Mirren`s Cannes-winning performance still hits different! This Northern Irish masterpiece proves that the most powerful love stories are built on impossible foundations.

More at irishfilmtv.com.

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Pat O'Connor's masterpiece CAL is back in Irish theatres Jun 13. Helen Mirren's Cannes-winning performance still hits different! This Northern Irish masterpiece proves that the most powerful love stories are built on impossible foundations. More at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 Jamie Dornan is serving DOUBLE TROUBLE in Netflix`s upcoming thriller THE UNDERTOW!

From BELFAST to THE TOURIST and now this psychological masterpiece, Dornan continues to prove he`s one of Ireland`s most versatile talents. One twin, one woman, one terrible secret... and we`re already obsessed! Coming 2025 and we simply cannot wait! 🔥

More via link in bio.

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🎬 Jamie Dornan is serving DOUBLE TROUBLE in Netflix's upcoming thriller THE UNDERTOW! From BELFAST to THE TOURIST and now this psychological masterpiece, Dornan continues to prove he's one of Ireland's most versatile talents. One twin, one woman, one terrible secret... and we're already obsessed! Coming 2025 and we simply cannot wait! 🔥 More via link in bio.

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🎬 Jim Sheridan is BACK and he`s not playing it safe!

The Oscar-nominated legend behind MY LEFT FOOT just dropped RE-CREATION at Tribeca - a bold courtroom drama that dares to ask: what if Ireland`s most controversial cold case actually went to trial?

More via link in bio.

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🎬 Jim Sheridan is BACK and he's not playing it safe! The Oscar-nominated legend behind MY LEFT FOOT just dropped RE-CREATION at Tribeca - a bold courtroom drama that dares to ask: what if Ireland's most controversial cold case actually went to trial? More via link in bio.

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🎬 Domhnall Gleeson is absolutely ace in ECHO VALLEY!

Fresh off Guy Ritchie`s FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH, this Irish powerhouse delivers another knockout performance as the menacing drug dealer Jackie Lawson.

Catch ECHO VALLEY in theaters now or stream on Apple TV+ June 13th 📺

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🎬 Domhnall Gleeson is absolutely ace in ECHO VALLEY! Fresh off Guy Ritchie's FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH, this Irish powerhouse delivers another knockout performance as the menacing drug dealer Jackie Lawson. Catch ECHO VALLEY in theaters now or stream on Apple TV+ June 13th 📺

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🎬 When your childhood dreams collide with iconic music history ✨

Saoirse Ronan just delivered a masterclass performance in the FIRST-EVER music video for Talking Heads` PSYCHO KILLER - directed by the legendary Mike Mills!

From Oscar nominations to dancing through office life cycles, our Irish queen continues to prove there`s no creative boundary she won`t cross.

Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 When your childhood dreams collide with iconic music history ✨ Saoirse Ronan just delivered a masterclass performance in the FIRST-EVER music video for Talking Heads' PSYCHO KILLER - directed by the legendary Mike Mills! From Oscar nominations to dancing through office life cycles, our Irish queen continues to prove there's no creative boundary she won't cross. Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.

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🎬 BELFAST named "City of Film" 🎬

@ni_screen claims a double victory at the Global Production Awards, beating NYC, Sydney & Zagreb in the process! 🌍

The future of film is green, local, and absolutely brilliant! 💚 More via link in bio!

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🎬 BELFAST named "City of Film" 🎬 @ni_screen claims a double victory at the Global Production Awards, beating NYC, Sydney & Zagreb in the process! 🌍 The future of film is green, local, and absolutely brilliant! 💚 More via link in bio!

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🎬 From Gotham`s darkest villain to romantic lead - Colin Farrell is stepping from shadow to light!

After three hours daily in prosthetics as THE PENGUIN, our Irish legend is trading trauma for tenderness in A BIG BOLD BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY with Margot Robbie. Sometimes the best transformations happen when you choose healing over harm. ✨

More at link in bio!

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🎬 From Gotham's darkest villain to romantic lead - Colin Farrell is stepping from shadow to light! After three hours daily in prosthetics as THE PENGUIN, our Irish legend is trading trauma for tenderness in A BIG BOLD BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY with Margot Robbie. Sometimes the best transformations happen when you choose healing over harm. ✨ More at link in bio!

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🐧 Two legends, one iconic villain!

Danny DeVito and Colin Farrell bonding over their shared Penguin experiences - from 3+ hours in the makeup chair to disappearing completely under prosthetics.

DeVito`s Oswald Cobblepot in BATMAN RETURNS vs Farrell`s Oz Cobb in THE BATMAN and THE PENGUIN series - 30 years apart but connected by the beautiful torture of total transformation.

More via link in bio!

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🐧 Two legends, one iconic villain! Danny DeVito and Colin Farrell bonding over their shared Penguin experiences - from 3+ hours in the makeup chair to disappearing completely under prosthetics. DeVito's Oswald Cobblepot in BATMAN RETURNS vs Farrell's Oz Cobb in THE BATMAN and THE PENGUIN series - 30 years apart but connected by the beautiful torture of total transformation. More via link in bio!

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Andrew Scott just landed a role in WAKE UP DEAD MAN: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY alongside Daniel Craig`s Benoit Blanc.

Fresh off his chilling turn as Tom RIPLEY on Netflix, Scott continues his career renaissance with this December 2025 mystery.

Between FLEABAG, RIPLEY, ALL OF US STRANGERS, and now joining Rian Johnson`s beloved franchise - this man can do no wrong! 🎭

More via link in bio!

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Andrew Scott just landed a role in WAKE UP DEAD MAN: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY alongside Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc. Fresh off his chilling turn as Tom RIPLEY on Netflix, Scott continues his career renaissance with this December 2025 mystery. Between FLEABAG, RIPLEY, ALL OF US STRANGERS, and now joining Rian Johnson's beloved franchise - this man can do no wrong! 🎭 More via link in bio!

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🍀 Colin Farrell`s voice takes us on an epic journey through Irish history!

From ancient DNA reconstructions to forgotten explorers who sailed with Columbus, FROM THAT SMALL ISLAND - THE STORY OF THE IRISH is about to blow your mind 🤯

Premiering June 8th on RTÉ ✨

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🍀 Colin Farrell's voice takes us on an epic journey through Irish history! From ancient DNA reconstructions to forgotten explorers who sailed with Columbus, FROM THAT SMALL ISLAND - THE STORY OF THE IRISH is about to blow your mind 🤯 Premiering June 8th on RTÉ ✨

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Irish Television

Farrell narrates FROM THAT SMALL ISLAND

Farrell narrates FROM THAT SMALL ISLAND

Farrell narrates FROM THAT SMALL ISLAND

Colin Farrell continues his impressive career evolution with his latest project, lending his distinctive voice to narrate FROM THAT SMALL ISLAND – THE STORY OF THE IRISH a groundbreaking four-part documentary series premiering on RTÉ One this June. This ambitious undertaking represents another thoughtful career choice for the Irish actor, who has increasingly gravitated toward meaningful projects that showcase his versatility beyond his early Hollywood blockbuster days.

The series, beginning Sunday, June 8th at 6:30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player, tackles an extraordinary scope of Irish history, tracing the journey from the island’s very first inhabitants to the present-day global diaspora of over 80 million people who claim Irish heritage. Shot across 17 countries worldwide, the documentary explores fundamental questions about Irish identity and belonging in our globalized world. Why does the entire world turn green on St. Patrick’s Day? What can the Irish experience of migration teach us about contemporary issues of identity and displacement?

The series promises fascinating revelations, including the television debut of ‘Rathlin Man,’ a 4,000-year-old ancestor whose face has been reconstructed using cutting-edge DNA technology. Audiences will discover forgotten Irish explorers who sailed with Columbus in 1492, a Mayo-born general who commanded the Argentinian army, and touching human stories like a baby with Down Syndrome who was lovingly cared for over 5,000 years ago at the ancient Céide Fields. The documentary doesn’t shy away from darker chapters, addressing Irish involvement in the transatlantic slave trade alongside celebrations of cultural achievements.

This project represents a natural progression for Farrell, whose recent career has been marked by sophisticated choices following acclaimed performances in THE KILLING OF A SACRED DEER, IN BRUGES, THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN, and THE BATMAN. For an actor whose own journey from Dublin to Hollywood mirrors the migration patterns explored in the documentary, this offers an opportunity to contribute his voice to telling the story of his own people.

Created by writer Bríona Nic Dhiarmada and produced by the award-winning team behind “1916: The Irish Rebellion,” the series spans millennia of Irish history with an original score by Colm Mac Con Iomaire. As global audiences grapple with questions of migration and identity, “From That Small Island” offers the Irish experience as both mirror and lens for understanding these universal human challenges, guided by one of Ireland’s most compelling contemporary voices as Farrell continues to establish himself as one of his generation’s most thoughtful performers.

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Irish Television

Fassbender in THE AGENCY Season Two

Fassbender in THE AGENCY Season Two

Fassbender in THE AGENCY Season Two

Michael Fassbender is experiencing a remarkable career renaissance, and his latest triumph proves that reinvention remains his greatest strength. After years of selective project choices following his intense run through the X-Men franchise and acclaimed performances in films like STEVE JOBS and MACBETH, the Irish-German actor has found his perfect vehicle in Paramount+’s THE AGENCY, which has just begun filming its highly anticipated second season in London.

The spy thriller, adapted from the critically lauded French series LE BUREAU DES LÉGENDES, represents everything Fassbender does best: complex character work wrapped in high-stakes storytelling. As CIA agent Martian, he inhabits a man living undercover in his own life, walking a knife’s edge between mission, love, and survival. The role allows Fassbender to showcase the psychological depth that made him a standout in films like SHAME and THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS, while operating within the addictive framework of espionage drama.

The overwhelming success of THE AGENCY‘s first season speaks to both the quality of the source material and Fassbender’s magnetic screen presence. Paramount+ wasted no time announcing the second season in December 2024, a testament to the show’s immediate impact and Fassbender’s drawing power as both star and executive producer. The series has assembled an impressive ensemble including Jeffrey Wright, Jodie Turner-Smith, Katherine Waterston, and Richard Gere, but it’s Fassbender’s tortured agent at the center that anchors every frame.

What makes this project particularly significant in Fassbender’s recent trajectory is how it combines his penchant for challenging material with mainstream appeal. After taking a step back from blockbuster filmmaking, THE AGENCY allows him to work with prestigious collaborators like George Clooney and Grant Heslov’s Smokehouse Pictures while maintaining the artistic integrity that has defined his most memorable performances. The series, with its origins in French television excellence, offers the kind of sophisticated storytelling that Fassbender has always gravitated toward.

The second season’s central premise, following Martian’s desperate attempts to save his imprisoned lover Samia played by Jodie Turner-Smith, promises to push Fassbender into even more emotionally fraught territory. His character must navigate treachery and moral compromise, themes that have consistently brought out his best work throughout his career. The actor’s ability to convey internal conflict through subtle physical performance makes him ideally suited for the series’ exploration of identity and deception.

As production continues in London with the Butterworth brothers returning as writers and executive producers, THE AGENCY represents more than just another successful series for Fassbender. It’s a career pivot that demonstrates how established actors can find new creative energy by embracing the evolving landscape of premium television. The show’s international co-production model and distribution through both Paramount Global and Federation Studios also positions Fassbender at the center of the kind of globally-minded storytelling that defines contemporary entertainment.

With THE AGENCY proving that his instincts for compelling material remain sharp, Michael Fassbender has once again positioned himself as one of the most compelling actors of his generation, proving that sometimes the best way forward is to go deeper into the shadows.

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Irish Television

Aidan Turner returns in RIVALS Season Two

Aidan Turner returns in RIVALS Season Two

Aidan Turner returns in RIVALS Season Two

Cameras are rolling once again in Rutshire as RIVALS season 2 officially begins production, and Disney+ has given fans their first tantalizing glimpse behind the scenes with newly released images that showcase the stellar cast diving back into Dame Jilly Cooper’s world of scandal, ambition, and sexual intrigue.

The production photos, shared across Disney’s social media channels, capture the energy and anticipation surrounding the show’s return, with Aidan Turner prominently featured alongside Alex Hassell, Nafessa Williams, and newcomer Bella Maclean. Turner’s presence in these behind-the-scenes glimpses signals his continued central role in what promises to be an even more explosive installment of the power-hungry drama that took audiences by storm.

The returning ensemble cast reads like a who’s who of British television talent, with Aidan Turner’s return being particularly significant for fans who have followed his career trajectory from BEING HUMAN to POLDARK and now to RIVALS. Turner, who has established himself as one of Britain’s most compelling leading men, brings his trademark intensity and charisma to the morally complex world of 1980s power plays. His presence alongside David Tennant, Katherine Parkinson, Alex Hassell, and Nafessa Williams ensures continuity in the intricate web of relationships that drive the narrative. Turner’s ability to navigate both romantic tension and political intrigue made him a standout in the first season, and his prominent placement in the new behind-the-scenes imagery suggests his character will continue to be at the heart of the show’s most compelling storylines.

RIVALS season 1 is available to stream on Disney+.

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Irish Television

Niamh Algar in THE IRIS AFFAIR

Niamh Algar in THE IRIS AFFAIR

Niamh Algar in THE IRIS AFFAIR

In a captivating evolution of her already impressive career, Niamh Algar takes center stage in Sky’s new Italian-set thriller, THE IRIS AFFAIR.

Following her acclaimed performances in projects like CALM WITH HORSES and RAISED BY WOLVES, Algar now embodies Iris Nixon, a complex genius whose life transforms from mundane to extraordinary in this “unapologetically exciting” adventure created by Luther mastermind Neil Cross. The eight-part series, currently filming in Sardinia, showcases Algar’s remarkable versatility as she portrays a character Cross describes as unlike any we’ve seen before on television. By day, Algar’s Iris flags harmful content for a social media platform, but her nights are spent navigating internet forums and solving intricate puzzles. When her exceptional intelligence leads her to crack a string of complex online riddles, she finds herself in Florence, face-to-face with charismatic entrepreneur Cameron Beck, played by Tom Hollander. Beck recruits her to unlock powerful technology, but upon discovering its dangerous potential, Iris steals crucial information and vanishes.

Reinventing herself as Ms. Brooks, a tutor to a wealthy family’s daughter on the Sardinian coast, Algar’s character becomes the focus of a high-stakes pursuit spanning from remote Sardinian cabins to Rome’s bustling streets. This performance marks another significant milestone in Algar’s rising trajectory, as she continues to select challenging, nuanced roles that showcase her exceptional talent. With Terry McDonough’s direction complementing Algar and Hollander’s dynamic performances, this “sun-drenched chase thriller” promises to deliver the perfect escapist viewing experience when it arrives on Sky and NOW streaming service later this year.

The burning question that will drive viewers through this Mediterranean adventure: can Iris decipher what the mysterious code could unleash before she’s found?

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Irish Television

Domhnall Gleeson in THE PAPER

Domhnall Gleeson in THE PAPER

Domhnall Gleeson in THE PAPER

Domhnall Gleeson’s impressive career trajectory continues its upward climb as the Irish actor steps into the beloved universe of THE OFFICE this fall. After captivating audiences in blockbuster franchises like STAR WARS and HARRY POTTER, Gleeson is now bringing his considerable talents to Peacock’s highly-anticipated series THE PAPER where he’ll portray an optimistic publisher fighting to save a dying Midwestern newspaper.

The announcement comes after years of speculation about a potential spinoff from THE OFFICE with NBC finally confirming that the same fictional documentary crew that once chronicled the everyday chaos of Dunder Mifflin will now turn their cameras on The Truth Teller, a struggling newspaper in Toledo, Ohio. Gleeson, whose recent work has showcased his remarkable range across genres, from sci-fi epics to intimate dramas, seems perfectly cast as the determined publisher with “unwavering optimistic belief” that he can restore The Truth Teller to its former glory.

At a recent NBCUniversal upfront presentation, Gleeson himself described the series as featuring “a wonderful ensemble cast of underdog characters that are banding together to keep journalism alive.” He’ll be joined by Sabrina Impacciatore of THE WHITE LOTUS fame and, in a delightful callback to the original series, Oscar Nuñez reprising his role as accountant Oscar Martinez. Though Gleeson has consistently demonstrated his dramatic prowess in films like EX MACHINA and THE REVENANT, THE PAPER will give viewers a chance to see his comedic abilities in full force, working under the guidance of THE OFFICE creator Greg Daniels and NATHAN FOR YOU creator Michael Koman.

This partnership promises to maintain the mockumentary style and awkward humor that made the original series a cultural phenomenon while exploring entirely new territory. For Gleeson, whose career has been marked by thoughtful role selection and memorable performances across independent and major studio productions alike, THE PAPER represents an exciting venture into episodic comedy. As NBCUniversal Entertainment President Lisa Katz noted, the newspaper setting is “ripe for comedic storytelling” – and with Gleeson at the helm as the idealistic publisher, viewers can expect a fresh yet familiar take on workplace dynamics when the series premieres on Peacock in September 2025. The role seems tailor-made for Gleeson, who has consistently brought depth and humanity to his characters, suggesting his publisher might become as endearing and complex as the beloved personalities from the original Scranton branch.

Watch the trailer below.

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Irish Television

Fassbender on THE AGENCY and BLACK BAG

Fassbender on THE AGENCY and BLACK BAG

Fassbender on THE AGENCY and BLACK BAG

After carving out an impressive cinematic legacy with two Oscar nominations and starring roles in blockbuster franchises like X-MEN and ALIEN, alongside acclaimed performances in 12 YEARS A SLAVE, STEVE JOBS, INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS, SHAME, and NEXT GOAL WINS, Michael Fassbender has made a surprising career pivot. The actor who once commanded the big screen has returned to television as the lead in Paramount+’s espionage thriller THE AGENCY playing a seasoned spy reintegrating into London headquarters after years in the field.

This calculated career move marks a full-circle moment for Fassbender, who began his career in television before Hollywood beckoned. The project’s irresistible appeal becomes clear when examining its pedigree: a stellar ensemble featuring fellow film luminaries Richard Gere, Jeffrey Wright, Jodie Turner-Smith, and John Magaro; the producing might of George Clooney, Grant Heslov, and Yellowstone’s 101 Studios; direction from Joe Wright; and writing from Tony Award winners Jez and John Henry Butterworth.

Fassbender’s recent work reveals a particular affinity for the espionage genre. Alongside THE AGENCY which begins filming its second season next month across London and international locations, he stars opposite Cate Blanchett in Steven Soderbergh’s critically acclaimed spy thriller BLACK BAG. When asked about playing James Bond—a role he once discussed with producers before Daniel Craig secured it—Fassbender expressed contentment with his current spy characters, which offer greater complexity than the iconic 007 role.

His recent career choices suggest an actor increasingly drawn to nuanced, challenging material rather than mainstream fare. Fassbender has expressed interest in exploring more comedic roles following his experience with Taika Waititi’s NEXT GOAL WINS, revealing a desire to expand his already versatile range. His artistic ambitions extend beyond film—he’s adapted a Quentin Tarantino work for the stage, showcasing his commitment to storytelling across different mediums.

This thoughtful evolution of Fassbender’s career demonstrates an actor prioritizing creative fulfillment over traditional Hollywood trajectories—choosing projects that challenge him while collaborating with premier talent, regardless of whether they appear on streaming platforms or in theaters.

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Irish Film, Irish Television

Celebrating 30 years of FATHER TED

Celebrating 30 years of FATHER TED

Celebrating 30 years of FATHER TED

Thirty years ago, on April 21st, 1995, FATHER TED first aired, introducing viewers to the misadventures of three Irish priests exiled to the fictional Craggy Island off Ireland’s west coast. By the time the final episode aired on May 1st, 1998, the series had transcended its modest beginnings to become one of the most beloved sitcoms ever created – distinctly Irish in character yet universally appealing.

Few could have predicted the cultural phenomenon that would emerge from this unlikely premise. Even Ardal O’Hanlon, who brilliantly portrayed the endearingly dim-witted Father Dougal McGuire, initially harbored doubts. “I thought it was a sh*t idea,” O’Hanlon confessed. “Who in England is going to want to watch a sitcom about Irish priests?” This skepticism seems almost comical in retrospect, as FATHER TED‘s memorable lines have since become catchphrases and memes, with the show’s 25 episodes continually rebroadcast and converting new generations of fans.

The mid-1990s marked an exciting period in British cultural life – the Blair years brought prosperity, optimism, and what O’Hanlon describes as “a cultural renaissance, Cool Britannia, Britpop.” Comedy was thriving, with stand-up performers regularly transitioning to television. O’Hanlon himself was in such demand that on the very day of his FATHER TED audition, he was also asked to audition for a role on THE BIG BREAKFAST. Despite initially viewing the show as a “distraction” from his stand-up career, O’Hanlon found himself naturally slipping into the character of Dougal.

“It sounded so natural in my voice. It matched my sensibility exactly,” he recalled of the audition process. The character embodied “a naivety, one of those south Co Dublin airheads, someone who has no self-awareness.” This intuitive understanding of the material speaks to the regional sensibility shared by O’Hanlon and co-creator Arthur Mathews, both from Ireland’s northeast, characterized by “that same droll, deadpan, dark comedy.”

The show’s creative team, writers Graham Linehan and Arthur Mathews, had spotted O’Hanlon’s potential through a combination of his stand-up performances and a small role in Ferdia Mac Anna’s “Hamlet and Her Brothers” for RTÉ. Along with O’Hanlon, the show featured Dermot Morgan as the titular Father Ted Crilly, Frank Kelly as the foul-mouthed alcoholic Father Jack Hackett, and Pauline McLynn as their perpetually tea-offering housekeeper Mrs. Doyle.

Critics and scholars have noted how the series masterfully subverts expectations, using seemingly low-brow humor to explore deeper themes of loneliness, agnosticism, existentialism, and purgatory experienced by its title character. This layered approach earned FATHER TED several British Academy Television Awards, including twice for Best Comedy Series. In a 2001 Channel 4 poll, Dougal was ranked fifth on their list of the 100 Greatest TV Characters, and in 2019, the show was named the second-greatest British sitcom (after FAWLTY TOWERS) by a panel of comedy experts for Radio Times.

Three decades later, FATHER TED remains a cultural touchstone that proved Irish comedy could resonate far beyond its shores while maintaining its distinctive voice and perspective. The show’s ability to blend absurdist humor with genuine character development created a template for future Irish comedy series, demonstrating that the most parochial settings could, paradoxically, provide the foundation for universally appealing storytelling.

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Irish Television