‘Fantastic’ Channel 4 drama set in Belfast is so good viewers don’t want it to end

A Channel 4 drama has been leaving viewers “hooked”, as they’ve been binge-watching the series in one go. The show is set in Belfast, and viewers don’t want it to end

There’s such an abundance of content on television that choosing what to watch can prove challenging, but audiences have recently become captivated by a Channel 4 drama based on a renowned novel. TV enthusiasts have been singing the programme’s praises across social media platforms, with numerous TikTok clips appearing of fans urging others to tune in.

The series, which can be viewed on Channel 4, takes place in Belfast throughout the 1970s, and has been described as a “heartbreaking” viewing experience. It chronicles the tale of a young Catholic educator named Cushla, who becomes romantically involved with a married Protestant man yet, in due course, their clandestine romance ignites a perilous love affair during an era when the Troubles severely divided communities.

In one clip, Nick Hilton characterises it as an “elegant” drama, which he also described as proper “grown up TV”. Additionally, it features the talents of Lola Petticrew, Tom Cullen and Gillian Anderson in principal roles.

Meanwhile, another video posted by Michelle, recognised as mrsmgl14 online, also celebrated the show. She remarked: “There’s a really good new show that’s just come out on the Channel 4 app, and it’s called Trespasses. It’s really good, I’ve just watched it all.

“There are four episodes and it’s like 1970s Ireland, with all the Troubles, what was going on in Ireland and stuff. Anyway, a Catholic teacher ends up having an affair, and falling in love with a married, Protestant man who’s a high-flying lawyer.”

She described it as “really good”, and felt compelled to share it with others because she enjoyed it so much. Michelle urged TV viewers to watch, revealing she devoured all four episodes in a single session.

Others appeared to share her enthusiasm, with numerous people commenting to express their adoration for the drama. One viewer said: “Loved this. It was fantastic. Didn’t want it to end.”

Another commented: “I’m in Belfast and have lived here all my life, so I grew up during the Troubles. I am watching this and it’s brilliant.” A third responded: “Watched it last night. Highly recommend.”

Meanwhile, a fourth also remarked: “I just binge-watched it. It’s really good, I agree.” Someone else also weighed in with: “Just watched it. I was hooked.”

For those unaware, Trespasses is actually adapted from a book of the same title. The novel, penned by Louise Kennedy, was published in 2022, with the television adaptation arriving on screens this year.

Both the literary work and programme are set in the 1970s, and delve into a tale of forbidden romance. Similar to the drama, the book was also warmly received.

In 2022, it earned a place on the shortlist for the inaugural Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize, and received a nomination for the 2023 Women’s Prize for Fiction. Audiences have been equally enthralled since the drama adaptation launched this month.

Another enthusiast penned: “Just finished this and I really enjoyed it. Thank you.” One more noted: “Great watch.”

If you haven’t yet given it a watch, it might be worth adding to your viewing list. The audience can’t stop buzzing about its captivating nature.