Bronagh Gallagher has praised Lisa McGee for helping put Derry in the spotlight, saying Derry Girls had a huge impact on the city and sparked fresh interest in it among visitors.
Speaking to Ralph McLean on the Postcards From Northern Ireland podcast, the How To Get To Heaven From Belfast star said McGee's writing had changed how people saw the city and brought a new audience to it.
Gallagher said the writer had found a way to tell the story of a difficult and painful past through the eyes of young people, and in doing so had ignited wider interest in Derry.
She said the success of Derry Girls had been "enormous" for the city, pointing to the growth in tours, themed events and memorabilia linked to the hit comedy. Gallagher added that the difference before and after the show had been striking, saying: "Now we are on the map, big time."
McGee’s latest series, How To Get To Heaven From Belfast, is her follow-up to Derry Girls. The dark comedy thriller stars Roisin Gallagher, Sinéad Keenan and Caoilfhionn Dunne, with Bronagh Gallagher appearing as Booker.
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Gallagher also spoke about filming in Northern Ireland, saying she discovered the beauty of the north Antrim coast while working on the series.
She recalled shooting a major stunt sequence at Murlough Bay and said she had been "bowled over" by the scenery, with views stretching to Rathlin Island and Scotland.
The actress also spoke warmly about Belfast, describing it as her "second-favourite city" and recalling childhood trips there with her family for music and nights at the Grand Opera House. She said she still loved the city and had enjoyed seeing how much it had grown over the years.
Episode six of Postcards From Northern Ireland, featuring Bronagh Gallagher, is out now on Discover Northern Ireland’s YouTube and Spotify platforms.
Source: Press Association
