Emotional BBC drama shares real life stories discussing NI abortion issues

The show kicks off tonight at 9pm on BBC One

Author: Emma Dickson

Three Families, set in Belfast between 2013-19, tells the real story of three women and their families before the recent change to legislation in Northern Ireland as many voices fight to be heard.

The Abortion Act of 1967 which permitted abortion in the UK did not extend to Northern Ireland.

With a cast including Sinéad Keenan (Little Boy Blue), Lola Petticrew (Bloodlands), Amy James-Kelly (Coronation Street) and Genevieve O’Reilly (The Fall), Three Families explores the emotive issues around abortion in Northern Ireland, and the experience of families whose lives have been profoundly affected.

Names and details have been changed to ensure the anonymity of the real-life contributors.

The show's Executive Producer Susan Hogg knows first hand what it's like to grow up and live in Northern Ireland.

She says: “Growing up in Northern Ireland I was always aware of the heated debate surrounding the issue of abortion and this is a story I’ve wanted to tell for many years. Three Families goes behind the headlines to tell the true stories of women and girls and their loved ones who have been deeply affected by the law and some of those who worked to change it.”

Sinéad Keenan (Little Boy Blue), Lola Petticrew (Bloodlands), and Genevieve O’Reilly (The Fall)

Gwyneth Hughes, a writer for the show shares: “I knew the law was different, but I had no idea what that really meant until I went to Northern Ireland and met some of the families involved."

"I’ve been deeply touched by their experiences and feel honoured to be asked to share their stories. I think the contributors will all be moved, as I am, by the extraordinary truthfulness and emotional depth that these wonderful actors bring to their stories.”

Piers Wenger, Director of BBC Drama, says: “Abortion is a complex and emotive subject, and it continues to divide opinion in Northern Ireland and elsewhere. Following months of detailed research, Gwyneth and the Studio Lambert team will help audiences get an insight into how abortion law has affected many different women and their families. Their stories are powerful, personal and memorable.”

Tune in Monday 10th May, at 9pm on BBC One!

Check out which other TV shows were filmed in Northern Ireland:

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