From Street Plays to Global Stardom: Lisa McGee Unveils New Netflix Series
Nearly four years after the emotional finale of the hit series Derry Girls, writer and creator Lisa McGee has launched her latest project on Netflix. Titled How To Get To Heaven From Belfast, the show merges her signature comedic style with a gripping murder mystery, following three women who reunite after the death of a childhood friend.
Early Beginnings in Storytelling
McGee's journey into the world of storytelling began long before her international fame. Growing up, she would craft plays for her neighborhood, often persuading—or coercing—local children to participate. "I was doing plays in my street and forcing everyone to be in them, even if they didn't want to," McGee recalled. "All the mums loved me, but the kids probably didn't because I was making them learn lines." This early experience served as an informal training ground, shaping her future career in television and film.
Influences from a Complex Upbringing
Raised in Derry before the Good Friday Agreement, McGee's childhood was marked by unique experiences that later influenced her work. She noted how everyday occurrences, such as army checks on cars, seemed normal at the time but revealed deeper stories to outsiders. "Outside of Ireland, people couldn't believe it, but that was what was going on," she explained. "It was only years later when I moved to London that I realized that's probably not normal." This perspective drives her commitment to portraying truthful and relatable depictions of Irish life, particularly focusing on women's stories that balance humor with seriousness.
Embracing the Murder Mystery Genre
McGee has always been fascinated by murder mysteries, citing classics like Murder, She Wrote as early inspirations. When given the opportunity to explore this genre, she seized it with a distinct approach. "I wanted it to be very female-led, have a big comedy element to it, a bit messy," she said. The series stars Roisin Gallagher, Sinead Keenan, and Caoilfhionn Dunne, with several familiar faces from Derry Girls taking on new roles. McGee expressed enthusiasm for continuing to tell stories from Ireland, highlighting its rich history and humorous people.
Future Prospects and Audience Impact
While a second season of How To Get To Heaven From Belfast is not yet confirmed, McGee remains hopeful. "I'd love to do it again because I love writing for those three women," she shared. "It just depends on who watches it and how many people watch it." The series is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering fans a fresh blend of comedy and intrigue from one of Ireland's most celebrated writers.
