C4 comedy is biggest hit in Northern Ireland in modern times

Derry Girls has become one of the biggest ratings hits in Northern Ireland since modern records began in 2002.

Consolidated figures – which take into account of catch-up viewing on TVs seven days after the initial broadcast – show that the comedy was seen by more than half the province.

With an average audience of 519,000 in Northern Ireland, it reached a total of 54 per cent of the possible TV audience, including 65 per cent of 16-34 year olds.

Across the UK, consolidated figures reveal that the first series was watched by an average of 2.5 million viewers, making it Channel 4’s biggest comedy launch since 2004. 

Last month a second series was announced.

Creator Lisa McGee said: ‘Derry Girls is a project very dear to my heart and I’m delighted that so many people have joined us for the ride (no, Michelle, not that sort of ride…). 

‘It’s particularly special to me that the Northern Irish audience has supported it in the way that they have – I’ve been blown away by the response to the series and am so excited that we get to do it all again with the second series.’

Fiona McDermott, Channel 4’s head of comedy said: ‘This level of popularity is proof positive that Lisa’s crafted not only a proper gem of a comedy but also one which is run through with authenticity and relatability.’

Published: 21 Feb 2018