Netflix has announced an all-star cast for its upcoming period drama Bad Bridgets, based on the book Bad Bridget: Crime, Mayhem and the Lives of Irish Emigrant Women by academics Elaine Farrell and Leanne McCormick. The series, set in 19th-century New York, follows a young Irish woman who receives a mysterious letter and is drawn into the chaotic world of the Bridgets.
Star-Studded Cast Announced
The ensemble includes Banshees of Inisherin's Colin Farrell, Stranger Things' Charlie Heaton, and Alan Partridge icon Steve Coogan. Also joining are About Time's Domhnall Gleeson, Enola Holmes actor Himesh Patel, The Irish Affair's Niamh Algar, and Kneecap star Simone Kirby. Earlier this year, Netflix revealed that Locke and Key's Emilia Jones and Wuthering Heights' Alison Oliver would play leading roles.
Based on Historical Research
The term 'bad bridget' was coined by the academics to describe destitute Irish girls and women who emigrated to America and Canada seeking better prospects but often faced hardship. The official synopsis states: 'When a mysterious letter offering escape leads a young Irish woman to 19th-century New York, she is pulled into the unruly world of the Bridgets, where mayhem follows in her wake.'
Creative Team and Production
Bad Bridgets is written, directed, and produced by BAFTA winner Rich Peppiatt, known for Kneecap and One Rogue Reporter. He reunites with Kneecap collaborator Ryan Kernaghan, who serves as cinematographer, while Poor Things' Academy Award winner James Price is production designer. The project is backed by Queen's University Belfast and Northern Ireland Screen. Production is expected to begin this month in Ireland and Northern Ireland. No release date has been confirmed.
