12 of the most colourful characters from Northern Ireland in fiction
By Chloe Langton and Laura McCutcheon
Published 27th Dec 2023, 12:22 BST
From Ted Hastings in Line Of Duty to Orla McCool in Derry Girls, Northern Ireland has its share of eccentric, unique and comedic characters.
Their idiosyncrasies, unconventional charm, and magnetic personalities have become an integral part of our entertainment scene, keeping audiences entertained for years.
Here are 12 of the most memorable Northern Irish characters in fiction, each adding their unique flair to their storylines.
5. Sarah "O" Owen (Sex Education)
A late addition to the popular Netflix series, ‘Sex Education’ Sarah "O" Owens played by Northern Irish actor Thaddea Graham rivals Otis as the school's rival sex therapist. Sarah’s butter wouldn’t melt demeanour comes across as obnoxious, rude and patronising to the new Cavendish students. We learn that Sarah had bullied popular character Ruby Matthews when they were younger in camp, however later in the series Sarah redeems herself by gaining the school's trust and coming out as asexual. Otis finds a lot more in common with Sarah than he first realised and learns that both their eccentricities can work together to help the Cavendish students. Photo: IMDB
6. Uncle Colm (Derry Girls)
With Derry Girls coming to an end, the popularity of the TV show has only grown further, becoming well known across the globe.
Everybody is familiar with Sister Michael, James and all of the Derry girls. However, one of the most interesting characters that is often forgotten about is Uncle Colm. A brother of Granda Joe and a great uncle to all the Derry girls, Uncle Colm is notorious for his drawn out, boring stories and tales, typical of Northern Irish uncles all over the country.
However, if you actually listen to these short segments, you will find that Uncle Colm is one of the most interesting and comical Northern Irish characters in the show. This is made by his claim that he once met President John. F Kennedy and his many catchphrases such as ‘nightmare all together’ and ‘so I says to myself’. Photo: IMDB
7. Cheryl Brady (Hollyoaks)
Coleraine actress Bronagh Waugh was a firm fixture on Channel 4's ‘Hollyoaks Later’ then ‘Hollyoaks’, from 2008-2013, where she starred as beloved Cheryl Brady.
Starting as a love interest for Malachy Fisher played by Glen Wallace, Waugh's character ended up becoming central to the show over the course of the years. Cheryl played baddie Brendan’s half-sister, she couldn’t be more opposite to her villainous brother, Cheryl is bubbly, lively and comedic. Cheryl’s confidence, outlandish fashion sense and erratic demeanour caused her to clash with one of the town's main characters, Mercedes McQueen, their spat led to many comedic one liners and scenarios. Photo: Bronagh Waugh Instagram.
8. May McFettridge (An Audience with May McFettridge)
Northern Ireland’s very own queen of comedy, May McFettridge has earned a special place in the hearts of audiences young and old alike with her distinctive brand of affectionate but well aimed gibes and witticisms.
A superstar in her own right, May has become a cult icon who’s never afraid to speak her mind. Indeed, her highly acclaimed stage show, An Audience with May McFettridge, at Belfast’s Grand Opera House proved just that. Joined by stars of stage and screen, May’s outspoken and hilarious one-liners never failed to reduce audiences to fits of laughter.
May is the longest running Dame in Christmas pantomime history, topping the bill at the Grand Opera House for 30 consecutive years. A bronze bust of the buxom Belfast backstreet bombshell takes pride of place in the Grand Opera House.
Recognised as one of the greatest character acts to emerge from Northern Ireland, May’s unique ability to involve audience members in her shows has made her one of the most popular and best loved comic performers in the country. Photo: May McFettridge Facebook