Lisa McGee Unveils New Netflix Series ‘How To Get To Heaven From Belfast’

Writer Lisa McGee is set to release her new Netflix series, How To Get To Heaven From Belfast, premiering on February 12, 2024. The series follows a group of former school friends in their late 30s as they navigate unexpected challenges and revisit their shared past. This project comes after McGee’s acclaimed success with Derry Girls, which captured the essence of growing up in Northern Ireland during the final years of the Troubles.

The series stars Roísín Gallagher as Saoirse, a television writer; Sinéad Keenan as Robyn, a mother of three; and Caoilfhionn Dunne as Dara, a reserved carer. Together, they embark on a journey that intertwines themes of friendship, memory, and the realities of adult life. McGee reflects on how the transition from adolescence to adulthood can often lead to a disconnect from one’s youthful aspirations.

Exploring Friendship and Self-Reflection

In How To Get To Heaven From Belfast, the trio receives news of the death of their estranged childhood friend, which sets off a series of unexpected and sometimes eerie events. The narrative delves into the dynamics of their friendship and poses questions about how their younger selves would perceive their current lives.

McGee articulates her fascination with the relationship between one’s older self and younger self. “When I was doing Derry Girls, it was kind of about me and my friends at school. Now, as grown women, we find ourselves reflecting on what those young girls would think of us today,” she explains. This introspective journey is central to the new series, as the characters grapple with their past decisions and their youthful ambitions.

She recalls feeling a sense of bravery in her youth, a stark contrast to the disappointments that often accompany adulthood. “I wanted to explore the idea of maybe trying to get back to that young girl who thought she could take on the world,” McGee says. This theme resonates deeply throughout the series, presenting a relatable narrative for many viewers.

A Unique Perspective on Women’s Experiences

The cast expresses their enthusiasm for portraying women in their 30s, a demographic often overlooked in comedy. Dunne, aged 42, emphasizes the importance of showcasing diverse female experiences, stating, “There aren’t many comedies that reflect women of our age.” She hopes the series will resonate with audiences by offering relatable narratives that reflect various stages of life.

Gallagher, 38, echoes this sentiment, noting the significance of friendships formed in formative years. “The show highlights the preciousness of friendships formed during adolescence, when you’re stepping into adulthood and trying to figure out who you want to be,” she explains. This exploration of friendship and connection is integral to the series, providing a heartfelt look at the bonds that shape individuals.

McGee, who previously ventured into darker themes with her thriller series The Deceived, is eager to return to her comedic roots with this project. “Bringing joy to people is important to me,” she states. The intention behind How To Get To Heaven From Belfast is to blend laughter with genuine exploration of female friendships, a theme she feels passionately about.

As the anticipation builds for the series’ release, audiences can expect a blend of humor, nostalgia, and an engaging narrative that reflects the complexities of adult life and the enduring power of friendship.