Saoirse-Monica Jackson first captured audiences with her breakout role as Erin Quinn in the critically acclaimed series Derry Girls, navigating the complexities of adolescence against the backdrop of 1990s Northern Ireland. The reveal, created by Lisa McGee, became a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its humor and heartfelt portrayal of teenage life. Now, Jackson is reuniting with McGee for a different kind of story: the zany murder-mystery How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, signaling a new chapter in her already impressive career.
Since bidding farewell to Erin and the world of Derry Girls four years ago, Jackson has been steadily building a diverse portfolio, showcasing her range as an actor. She’s proven herself a compelling dramatic performer alongside her comedic talents, tackling challenging roles on stage and screen. This evolution demonstrates a willingness to embrace complexity and intensity, solidifying her position as one of Ireland’s most promising talents.
Last year, Jackson made her New York theater debut in Irishtown, an off-Broadway comedy lauded for its insightful exploration of cultural identity. Simultaneously, she took on the role of Natasha in a production of Chekhov’s Three Sisters at Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre, a performance that highlighted her ability to portray nuanced and emotionally resonant characters. The role charted the chilling transformation of a shy, ridiculed woman into a tyrannical head of house, demonstrating a remarkable range.
Her television function continues to impress, with Jackson currently starring as Cheryl Crawford in the Liverpool-set series This City Is Ours, often described as a “Scouse Sopranos” due to its gritty depiction of power, greed, and ambition. The show’s second season is anticipated soon. And later this year, she will appear in Vicky Wight’s The Body is Water, alongside the late Isiah Whitlock Jr., Stephen Rea, and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, further expanding her filmography.
Jackson’s personal life likewise garnered significant attention last year, with her wedding to Hector Barbour, also known as Scottish DJ Denis Sulta, becoming a viral sensation. The event, meticulously planned and executed, resonated with fans and quickly populated bridal Pinterest boards. Her Derry Girls co-star Jamie-Lee O’Donnell was among her bridesmaids, and Jackson walked down the aisle to “Dreams” by The Cranberries, the iconic theme song from Derry Girls, adding a poignant touch to the celebration.
Returning to work with Lisa McGee on How to Get to Heaven from Belfast feels like a natural progression for Jackson, a return to the creative partnership that launched her career. McGee described her new show as a “shit, female, Northern Irish A-Team!” according to The Guardian, a description that hints at the show’s blend of thriller, comedy, and strong female characters. The series follows Saoirse (Roisin Gallagher), Robyn (Sinéad Keenan), and Dara (Caoilfhionn Dunne) as they investigate the death of a former school friend.
The new series, like Derry Girls, is fundamentally a story about friendship, specifically the enduring bonds between women and the shared memories that shape their lives. Jackson, Keenan, and Dunne play characters who have known each other since their teenage years at Our Lady of the Sorrows school. As McGee explained, she wanted to create characters who felt “badass.”
Jackson’s trajectory demonstrates a deliberate and thoughtful approach to her career. From the beloved Erin Quinn to her diverse stage and screen roles, she consistently seeks out projects that challenge her and allow her to explore the full spectrum of her talent. Her willingness to embrace both comedic and dramatic roles, coupled with her dedication to her craft, positions her as a rising star to watch.
With How to Get to Heaven from Belfast poised for release on Netflix, and further projects like The Body is Water on the horizon, Saoirse-Monica Jackson is continuing to build a career defined by versatility and artistic integrity. Her future projects promise to showcase her continued growth and solidify her place as a dynamic force in the entertainment industry.
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