Channel 4 has unveiled its forthcoming project, “How To Get To Heaven From Belfast,” a comedy thriller set to be brought to life by acclaimed writer Lisa McGee, known for her work on “Derry Girls.” The eight-episode series, produced in collaboration with Hat Trick Productions, marks a highly anticipated addition to the network’s lineup.
The narrative follows the lives of three childhood friends, Saoirse, Robyn, and Dara, who have grown into distinct individuals with unique paths. As they navigate their late thirties, Saoirse is a successful writer battling self-destructive tendencies, Robyn is a candid and stressed mother of three, and Dara has taken on the role of a full-time caregiver to her elderly parent while remaining ensconced in her teenage bedroom.
The story takes an intriguing turn when the trio receives an email announcing the death of Greta, a former classmate with whom they shared a close bond. This notification uncovers layers of unspoken history and unresolved matters. The friends converge at Greta’s wake, but the circumstances surrounding her passing soon reveal themselves as enigmatic and potentially sinister. Their quest for the truth becomes an exhilarating and ominous journey that leads them from the streets of Belfast, steeped in history and haunting memories, to the untamed landscapes of rural Donegal, traversing Ireland as they grapple with both external mysteries and their own complex lives.
The series, while not a traditional “whodunit,” offers a captivating blend of mystery and comedy as the characters strive to piece together the fragments of the puzzle, unearthing deeper insights into friendship, memory, and life’s unexpected turns.
Caroline Leddy, Liz Lewin, and Jimmy Mulville will serve as executive producers for the project, which is a collaborative effort between Channel 4’s Comedy and Drama departments. Lisa McGee expressed her excitement for the venture, highlighting the opportunity to create a comedy thriller set in Northern Ireland.
Channel 4’s Head of Comedy, Charlie Perkins, underscored the significance of the show and praised the talents behind it, while Jimmy Mulville, Managing Director at Hat Trick Productions, emphasized the captivating narrative that blends comedy and thrills, catering to fans of both genres.
“How To Get To Heaven From Belfast” promises to showcase Lisa McGee’s signature storytelling prowess in a unique blend of mystery and humor that is sure to captivate audiences when it finally hits the screen.
