Sister Michael actress Siobhan McSweeney has revealed that she had never been to Northern Ireland before she landed the role in the hit comedy Derry Girls.
McSweeney won the hearts of viewers with her brilliant performance as Sister Michael, always bored and frustrated by the antics of her students and trapped in her life of servitude to the Church.
Sister Michael was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the show. Although the character was constantly irritated by the actions of the girls, she also displayed a caring, protective nature towards them and their innocence growing up in during the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
McSweeney has admitted that she had never ventured north of the border until she began filming Derry Girls.
However, she soon fell in love with the country and is now fronting a new show for Channel 4 – ‘Exploring Northern Ireland with Siobhan McSweeney’.
The actress, who grew up in Cork, said: “If the last year has taught me anything it’s that life’s too short to sit indoors. As a keen walker, I’ll be lacing up my walking boots to spend some much-needed time hiking, kayaking and wild camping in this wonderful corner of the world.”
The series will consist of four episodes as McSweeney travels to various landmarks and attractions in Northern Ireland.
As a keen walker, there are plenty of opportunities for her to take in the beautiful landscapes at places such as the Mourne Mountains and the Giant’s Causeway.
McSweeney takes viewers with her as she learns about the history of each site she visits by mingling with the locals and hearing their stories.
Waddell Media, who produced the show, said: “Viewers are in for a real treat as Siobhán immerses herself well and truly into Northern Ireland’s great outdoors. She’s not afraid to try her hand at some weird and wacky activities as she travels across Ulster on her electric bike, giving us a unique insight into the people she meets on her journey as well as taking in the stunning scenery on offer.”
The series is sure to be popular and may well offer some inspiration to people in both Northern Ireland, Ireland and the UK.
Many travel restrictions are still in place due to the coronavirus so it is expected that many people will choose to take a holiday closer to home.
There are certainly plenty of great places to visit in Northern Ireland as McSweeney will share with us.