The Galway Bay Murders debuts on RTÉ One with Kate Mulgrew and John Connors
In a feature for rte.ie, writer Eithne Verling argues that bringing her first television series to the screen is an extraordinary milestone after years of crafting detective stories. Verling, raised in An Cheathrú Rua and formerly the director of the Galway Museum, created the twist-filled drama to explore themes of climate activism, Traveller culture, and personal grief across the Conamara region.
The six-part mystery begins when the body of a young woman is discovered on a Conamara bog. RTÉ One and the RTÉ Player will broadcast the opening episode on Sunday, 8 November at 9:30pm, as rte.ie reported. The narrative pairs visiting NYPD detective Lieutenant Nora Savage—played by Star Trek: Voyager star Kate Mulgrew—with Detective Eddie McDonagh, portrayed by Love/Hate actor John Connors.
Writing Lieutenant Nora Savage specifically for Kate Mulgrew
Verling explains that she wrote the role of Lieutenant Nora Savage specifically for Mulgrew after the two met by chance in Galway and formed an immediate bond. According to Verling, the friendship grew over time and eventually inspired her to pitch a thriller concept during a visit to New York with her husband. Although she initially drafted an ambitious iteration set entirely in America, Verling rewrote the project during the Covid-19 pandemic to reflect her home in Conamara.
The production features India Mullen as Detective Inspector Martina Daly and Cillian O’Sullivan as Detective Sergeant Ger Hayes. Verling praises the cast and crew for their dedication, noting that international distribution is already secured after ITV purchased the series ahead of its broadcast.
Verling translates Garda persistence into fictional character arcs
During the research phase, Verling consulted serving and former members of An Garda Síochána and found herself struck by the doggedness of their investigative work. She translates that persistence into the character arcs of Savage and McDonagh, whose initial reluctance shifts into an obsessive pursuit of truth, salvation, and redemption.
Beyond the murder mystery, Verling intends the series to challenge audience judgments and examine the impacts of neoliberalism and accumulation. She points to young people as the true agents of change in the story, noting that they possess fewer filters and a clearer approach to the world’s ecological challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Galway Bay Murders
When does The Galway Bay Murders air?
The series premieres on RTÉ One and the RTÉ Player on Sunday, 8 November at 9:30pm.
Which actors star as the lead investigators?
Kate Mulgrew stars as NYPD detective Lieutenant Nora Savage alongside John Connors as Detective Eddie McDonagh.
Where is the television series set?
The story is set in the Conamara region, centered around a body discovered on a local bog.
Has the series been picked up internationally?
Yes, ITV has already purchased the broadcasting rights for the drama.
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