Trespasses is the new Channel 4 drama based on Louise Kennedy’s breakout debut novel. The series is set in 1974 and stars Lola Petticrew, Tom Cullen and Gillian Anderson
Trespasses is Channel 4’s latest drama offering. Adapted from Louise Kennedy’s acclaimed debut novel, the series was shot in Belfast and boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring Lola Petticrew, Gillian Anderson and Tom Cullen.
Set during the Troubles, this forbidden romance launched on Sunday, 9 November. Bloodlands star Lola Petticrew portrays Cushla, whilst Welsh actor Tom Cullen, recognised for his work in The Gold and Weekend, takes on the role of Michael.
Taking place in 1974, the narrative centres on Cushla, a Catholic teacher, who becomes romantically involved with Michael, a married Protestant barrister. The ensemble also features Sex Education’s Gillian Anderson, who doubles as executive producer, alongside Blue Lights’ Martin McCann, Little Disasters’ Emily Taaffe, My Left Nut’s Oisín Thompson, and Bad Sisters’ Barry Ward, reports Belfast Live.
Gillian Anderson as Gina in Channel 4’s Trespasses(Image: Channel 4)
The opening episode received glowing praise from audiences, with one social media user describing it as “perfect.” They commented: “Trespasses is one of the best novel adaptations I’ve ever seen.”
“Gillian is amazing as Gina. (We all know, I’ve known this for centuries, but she somehow always has the power of taking my breath away. Cast, music, everything perfect. Awards here they come.”
Meanwhile, another viewer remarked: “Gillian Anderson brought Gina to life, steals every scene. Peak performance from Lola Petticrew and Tom Cullen.”
A third viewer commented: “Wow, that was good. @Channel4 at its best with Lola Petticrew, Tom Cullen and Gillian Anderson all on top form. Can’t wait for the rest of the series.”
So when can viewers catch the next instalment of Trespasses, and how many episodes makeup this new drama? Here’s everything you need to know.
How many episodes of Trespasses are there?
Michael Agnew (Tom Cullen) and Cushla Lavery (Lola Petticrew) in Trespasses(Image: Channel 4)
The series comprises four episodes in total. Episode one premiered at 9pm on Sunday, 9 November, with subsequent episodes airing nightly at the same time through to Wednesday, 12 November.
Thee official synopsis reads: “Trespasses is the story of Cushla, a young Catholic schoolteacher whose life in 1975 Northern Ireland is shadowed by the Troubles.
“Amid curfews, bombings, and betrayals, she works nights in her family’s pub, serving both sides and British soldiers, when she meets and falls for Michael – an older, married Protestant barrister.
“Their affair is intoxicating and dangerous. Cushla’s world is full of defiant spirits: her drunk, sharp-tongued mother Gina, her lively pupils, and beloved colleague Gerry.
“As the forbidden love between Cushla and Michael deepens, violence looms and tensions rise. Cushla is pulled between duty and desire, family and freedom.”
Trespasses continues on Channel 4 at 9pm.
