Netflix has released new details about Bad Bridgetthe upcoming historical drama set in the 19th century. It was previously announced that Emilia Jones (The Running Man (2025)) in Alison Oliver (Wuthering Heights (2026)) will play the leading roles. In addition, other famous faces are now also appearing in the cast.
Sisters on the run
Bad Bridget tells the story of two sisters who embark on a dangerous journey to the United States to escape an abusive father, poverty and hunger. Upon arriving in New York, they join a group of other Irish women, the so-called ‘Bridgets’, who turn the city upside down.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Irish women fled famine-stricken Ireland for North America, where they faced hardship and crime.
Based on historical research
Bad Bridget is based on the research project of history professors Elaine Farrell and Leanne McCormick. Their work also inspired the podcast ‘Bad Bridget’. The various projects tell the story of Irish women who emigrated to New York, Boston and Toronto in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It traces a period when Irish female migrants featured conspicuously in prison statistics, sometimes even in greater numbers than their male compatriots. The term ‘Bridget’ was used at the time as a common nickname for Irish domestic maids.
Strong international cast expanded
In addition to Jones and Oliver, Netflix is adding an impressive array of names to the cast. Colin Farrell (among others)In Bruges (2008)), Steve Coogan (Legends (2026)), Charlie Heaton (Stranger Things (2016–2025)), Domhnall Gleeson (Ex Machina (2014)), Himesh Patel (Yesterday (2019)), Niamh Algar (The Iris Affair (2025– )) a Simone Kirby (Kneecap (2024)).
Award winning maker
The project will be written, directed and produced by Rich Peppiatt, who previously won a BAFTA for the critically acclaimed film Kneecap (2024).
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Recordings will start in summer 2026
Netflix confirms that the recordings of Bad Bridget are planned for July 2026. Production will take place at locations in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
