Much like a perfectly poured pint of stout, Irish television is dark, complex, and carries a kick you won’t soon forget. While the world has long toasted to Ireland’s legendary poets and pub culture, the nation’s small screen has quietly become a global powerhouse of cinema.
Whether you are craving a gut-wrenching drama or a comedy that leaves you gasping for air, we think these ten shows represent the absolute best of a nation known for so much more than its beer.
10. Mrs Brown’s Boys (2011-present)
Meet Agnes Brown, the loud-mouthed matriarch who loves meddling in her family’s business. It is pure, unfiltered chaos, famous for its “oops” moments where the actors break character and laugh along with the audience. It’s a fourth-wall-breaking riot that has become a massive global staple for anyone who loves a bit of foul-mouthed family fun.
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9. The Hardy Bucks (2010-2018)
This cult-classic mockumentary is about the “Castletown” lads, who are a group of slackers in small-town Ireland who are experts at doing absolutely nothing. It’s nothing but raw, improvised, and hilariously accurate about life in the countryside. It will feel like home if you’ve ever sat around with friends dreaming of big schemes while stuck in a tiny town.
8. Paths to Freedom (2000-2001)
This biting satire is about two men, one working-class and one “philosopher” snob, released from prison on the very same day. Their uneasy partnership fuels a brutally honest take on Ireland’s class divide, packed with discomfort, ego, and moments that hit harder than expected.
7. The Young Offenders (2018-present)
Conor and Jock are two lovable idiots from Cork who spend their days stealing bikes and failing at life. While the show is packed with high-energy slapstick and ridiculous crimes, it has a massive heart hidden beneath the tracksuits. It’s a feel-good comedy that proves no matter how much trouble you get into, having a best friend makes it worth it.
6. Moone Boy (2012–2015)
Growing up in the 80s is tough, but Martin Moone has a secret weapon: a sarcastic imaginary friend played by Chris O’Dowd. This whimsical, nostalgic trip is full of charm and quirky small-town vibes. It’s perfect for anyone who remembers what it was like to be the weird kid in school who was not given a seat at the table.
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5. Love/Hate (2010-2014)
Forget the jokes! This is Ireland’s answer to ‘The Wire‘. This crime drama dives into Dublin’s underworld, following the rise and fall of criminals caught in a cycle of betrayal. It’s tense, cinematic, and absolutely brutal. If you want a show that will keep your heart racing and your jaw on the floor, this is the one to binge.
4. Father Ted (1995-1998)
Three priests and a tea-obsessed housekeeper exiled on a tiny, boring island shouldn’t be this funny, but it is. This show is a surreal masterpiece filled with iconic catchphrases and absurd situations involving runaway milk floats and “lovely horses.” It’s the ultimate Irish comedy classic that remains just as fresh and ridiculous today as it was in the 90s.
3. Normal People (2020)
This isn’t just a romance; it’s a full-fledged obsession. Following Marianne and Connell from high school sweethearts to college sweethearts, this show captures the raw, messy reality of first love. It’s visually stunning and will probably break your heart at least once per episode. If you want a drama that feels deeply personal and incredibly real, this is a modern masterpiece.
2. Bad Sisters (2022-present)
Five sisters, one dead brother-in-law, and a whole lot of secrets. This darkly comedic Irish thriller follows the Garvey sisters as they try to cover up a murder while being chased by persistent insurance agents. It celebrates the fierce bond of family, even when that family is planning a hit. It’s a perfectly balanced mystery!
1. Derry Girls (2018-2022)
The ultimate GOAT of Irish TV. Set during The Troubles in the 90s, it follows five teens who are much more worried about exams and boys than political conflict. The dialogues are lightning-fast, the characters are iconic, and the 90s soundtrack is something you can’t forget. It’s a hilarious, heartfelt tribute to the resilience of youth that everyone needs to watch at least once.
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