Chances are, even if you’re not huge British dramedy nerds like the WGBH Drama Club, you've heard of Ballykissangel. But hey, even if you haven't, you're in luck – because all six seasons are available now on WGBH Passport.
Airing for the first time over two decades ago, this show focuses on the trials and tribulations of British priest Peter Clifford after he was transferred to the small town of Ballykissangel in Ireland. Life in this small, gossip-obsessed town proves to be full of drama, surprises, and comedy as Clifford battles it out with his fellow clergymen, parishioners, and the cynical — but attractive — pub owner, Assumpta Fitzgerald.
Over the course of its six seasons, Ballykissangel introduced us to many memorable characters, storylines, and scenic views of this small Irish village. Besides capturing our hearts and minds, Ballykissangel also introduced us to several actors who would go on to play huge roles on both the small and large screen. As we approach the 22nd anniversary of the show's premiere, let’s revisit some of the well-known faces that appeared on Ballykissangel.
Colin Farrell
Known for his critically acclaimed roles in The Lobster, Miami Vice, True Detective, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and countless other films and television projects, Irish actor Colin Farrell broke into the TV scene with his reoccurring role of Danny Bryne on Ballykissangel.
Just 22 years old at the time, Farrell found fame playing this Dublin bad boy in the last three seasons of this British dramedy. In the years following his time on Ballykissangel, Farrell saw his career take off, securing roles in films such as Tigerland, and American Outlaws.
Lena Headey
Perhaps best known for her role as Cersei Lannister in Game of Thrones, you may also recognize Lena Heady as Queen Gorgo in 300, and Angelika in The Brothers Grimm. Before she made a career in action-packed fantasy series, Lena Headey could be found playing the role of Jenny Clark on the first season of Ballykissangel.
Although only appearing briefly on the series, Headey's character was responsible for Father Clifford’s transfer to Ballykissangel, starting the action of the series.
James Nesbitt
Best known for portraying Bofur in The Hobbit trilogy and countless other roles in film and TV projects such as Jekyll, Murphy’s Law, Lucky Man and Midnight Man, James Nesbitt has made a career out of playing complex characters.
Shortly after studying at the Central School of Speech and Drama, Nesbitt could be found in several films and television projects, including Ballykissangel, where he played the role of journalist Leo McGarvey. Assumpta’s ex-boyfriend, McGarvey — like Father Clifford — is an outsider in this quaint and odd town, struggling to navigate its peculiarities.
David Harewood
Guest starring in an episode of Ballykissangel as Father Henry in the show's fourth season, David Harewood has had a one of the most widely varied careers of any of the Ballykissangel cast.
You may recognize him from his work in The Merchant of Venice, Doctor Who, or perhaps Supergirl. Yet perhaps his most well known role came with the character of David Estes on Homeland in the show's first and second seasons.
Owen Teale
Perhaps most well-known for portraying the humorless Alliser Thorne on Game of the Thrones, actor Owen Teale can also be found in A Discovery of Witches, and River. Yet, early in his career, we knew him as Connor Devlin on the the fifth season of Ballykissangel, a local boatsman in the town and love interest of Orla O’Connell.
Recently, Teale could be seen playing Headmaster Gilson in the film Tolkien.
To see the early careers of these actors and many more, catch up on Ballykissangel on Passport today!
