Gillian Anderson stars in Channel 4’s ‘Trespasses,’ portraying a mother in denial about her alcoholism amid the turbulent backdrop of 1975 Northern Ireland.
Gillian Anderson is stepping into markedly new territory with her latest role in Channel 4’s adaptation of #Trespasses, a drama set against the political and emotional turmoil of 1975 Northern Ireland.
Known for portraying powerful and composed figures such as Margaret Thatcher in The Crown, journalist Emily Maitlis, and the iconic Agent Dana Scully, Anderson now takes on Gina — a woman whose life is defined by alcoholism, emotional isolation, and a deep refusal to acknowledge her addiction.
Based on Louise Kennedy’s acclaimed novel, Trespasses follows Cushla (Lola Petticrew), a young Catholic schoolteacher struggling to navigate the turbulence of the Troubles while working nights in her family’s pub.
Her mother Gina, played by Anderson, spends her days confined to the living room, often intoxicated, and in complete denial about the impact of her dependency.
Anderson says this denial is what drew her to the character, describing addiction as a “devastating” force that thrives on the refusal to confront the truth.
The Emmy-winning actress explained that while she didn’t grow up with parents battling addiction, she knew people who did, and she tapped into those experiences to understand the emotional landscape of her character.
For Anderson, the portrayal felt deeply moving, particularly as audiences will witness the complicated and often painful dynamic between Gina and Cushla — a relationship she notes is “not uncommon” for those affected by addiction.
Anderson also serves as an executive producer on the project alongside renowned UK producer Amanda Posey. She said Kennedy first approached her about the role over dinner and “a couple of glasses of wine,” prompting her to accept almost immediately and request to join the series on the production side.
The series also stars Tom Cullen as Michael, a married Protestant barrister with whom Cushla begins a dangerous affair. Both Petticrew and Cullen admitted to feeling intimidated when they learned they’d secured their roles, given the historical weight and cultural sensitivity of the material.
Cullen, who isn’t from Ireland or Northern Ireland, said he felt a heightened responsibility to portray the story respectfully.
Screenwriter Ailbhe Keogan, known for her work on Bad Sisters, sought to remain as faithful as possible to Kennedy’s novel, which she said moved her to tears upon first reading.
Trespasses premieres Sunday at 9 p.m. GMT (1 p.m. PT) on Channel 4.
