Channel 4's new drama Trespasses, which debuted on Sunday night, has drawn criticism from viewers over 'dodgy' Irish accents that they say detract from Gillian Anderson's 'mesmerising' performance. The series, set in 1970s Northern Ireland during The Troubles, stars English and Welsh actors including Anderson, Tom Cullen, and Lola Petticrew.
Viewers took to X to complain about the accents, with one writing: 'At times, I can’t understand a word people are saying… It’s not just the accents, it’s the dodgy sound quality too.' Another added: 'Think I need subtitled on,' while a third said: 'Trespasses Channel 4, giving you points for this, but some of the accents are shocking.'
Despite the criticism, many praised the series and Anderson's performance. One viewer wrote: 'God, it's fantastic. I'm so glad that it lives and breathes like the book.' Another said: 'Gillian Anderson brought Gina to life, steals every scene.' Critics have also been positive, with The Guardian calling it a 'miraculous TV heartbreaker' and Digital Spy describing it as 'breathtaking'.
Trespasses is based on Louise Kennedy's debut novel, shortlisted for the Women's Prize in 2023, and adapted by Bad Sisters writer Ailbhe Keogan. The series airs on Channel 4 and is available to stream on Channel 4.
