Drama based on best-selling book with 94% Rotten Tomatoes rating airs tonight

Channel 4 drama Say Nothing, based on Patrick Radden Keefe’s book, stars Lola Petticrew, Anthony Boyle, Maxine Peake, Hazel Doupe and Josh Finan

A drama hailed as a “masterpiece” and based on a bestselling memoir airs tonight. Say Nothing, adapted from Patrick Radden Keefe’s book, originally premiered on Disney+ in 2024 but officially arrives on Channel 4 this evening.

The series features Trespasses star Lola Petticrew and House of Guinness favourite Anthony Boyle, alongside Dinnerladies and Shameless actress Maxine Peake, Hazel Doupe and Josh Finan.

According to the synopsis: “Spanning four decades, the series opens with the shocking disappearance of Jean McConville, a single mother of ten who was abducted from her home in 1972 and never seen alive again.

“Telling the story of various Irish Republican Army (IRA) members, Say Nothing explores the extremes some people will go to in the name of their beliefs, the way a deeply divided society can suddenly tip over into armed conflict, the long shadow of radical violence for all affected, and the emotional and psychological costs of a code of silence.”

Lola Petticrew and Hazel Doupe portray real-life siblings Dolours Price and Marian Price, two young women who became powerful symbols of radical politics. Anthony Boyle plays Brendan Hughes, a charismatic yet conflicted military strategist, whilst Josh Finan takes on the role of Gerry Adams, a prominent political operator who later negotiated peace and has consistently denied any links with the IRA, reports the Express.

Maxine Peake appears as the Older Dolours Price. The nine-episode series is a gripping tale of murder and memory set during The Troubles in Northern Ireland.

Already aired on Disney+, the drama boasts an impressive 94% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes. One review read: “Absolutely fantastic. Can’t recommend enough.”

While another added: “One of the best shows I’ve seen all year. So thoughtfully written and the acting by everyone especially by Lola Petticrew who does an amazing job as a young Dolours Price. “

A third reviewer said: “Fantastic work about a part of history and a nation that should be talked about much more than it’s been done. From directing, writing to acting the show is masterpiece of television.” Say Nothing airs on Channel 4 at 9pm on Monday, December 1, with the second and third episodes airing back-to-back on Tuesday, December 2.

Say Nothing airs on Channel 4 at 9pm on Monday, December 1.