đĽNETFLIX 2025 MUST-WATCH: Forbidden Love, Deadly Secrets, and Scandal That Fans Canât Look Away! đąđ A dangerous romance unfolds during the height of the Troubles in Belfast, where love crosses every religious and social boundary yet hides deadly secrets. Gillian Anderson leads the cast in a series already being called âOutlander meets The Crownâ, where every kiss and whispered secret could cost lives. If you thought Bridgerton was scandalous and Outlander addictive, get ready: this is Netflixâs boldest and most heartbreaking period drama yet, keeping viewers glued to the screen.
Trespasses is Channel 4âs new four-part period drama adapted from Louise Kennedyâs 2022 novel. It is set in 1975 in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.
The upcoming period drama will star the legendary X-Files and Sex Education actor, Gillian Anderson.
Whatâs Trespasses all about?
Channel 4âs synopsis reads: â1975, in a town outside Belfast. Whilst working one night behind the bar of her family pub, serving a mixed crowd including the locally stationed soldiers, Catholic schoolteacher Cushla meets Michael, an older Protestant married man, who often defends IRA suspects and is friends with cultured Bohemians who enrage and intrigue Cushla.â
The synopsis continues: âWorlds apart, Cushla knows a relationship like this spells all kinds of trouble, but they are irresistibly drawn to one another. In a place where loose lips cost lives and danger lurks in the shadows, amidst the fear and paranoia, this illicit affair between Cushla and Michael ignites and burns brightâŚâ
Gillian Anderson, 57, who plays Gina, leads the cast. She appears alongside Lola Petticrew, 29, Â as Cushla, Tom Cullen, 40, as Michael, Martin McCann, 42, as Eamonn and Gerard McCarthy, 44, as Jim.
From page to screen
The series adapts Louise Kennedyâs acclaimed debut. The novel was shortlisted for the Womenâs Prize for Fiction in 2023. Readers have praised the book for its emotional pull. One described it as âmovingâ.
Another reviewer said: âTrespasses by Louise Kennedy is an exceptionally well-written, intense novel.â
Red magazine has already listed the  TV adaptation among the âbestâ new period dramas. Fans of the book are keen to see how the story translates to the screen.
Trespasses runs for four episodes. It is produced by Wildgaze Films and adapted by Ailbhe Keogan, while Dawn Shadforth directs. Executive producers include Amanda Posey, Finnola Dwyer, Louise, and star Gillian Anderson.
Filming wrapped in Belfast in December 2024. Gillian confirmed the wrap on X: âWrapped on Trespasses! Walking away with a wee wrap giftâ.
Channel 4 released first-look images earlier this year. Locations included Finaghy, Ballymena and Holywood, County Down.
When and where to watch
Channel 4 says Trespasses will air and stream in 2025. An exact date has not been announced yet.
It will be available live on Channel 4 and to stream on Channel 4âs free service. The four episodes will drop across the run.
Why fans canât wait
The set-up is clear and compelling. A Catholic teacher and a Protestant barrister fall in love at the height of the Troubles. The cast is strong, with Gillian bringing screen presence.
The bookâs reputation adds momentum. The Womenâs Prize recognition and reader responses suggest a faithful and affecting adaptation. Expect a focus on community lines, risk, and secrecy. The love story unfolds against the backdrop of daily tensions and social divisions.
The tone is set to be intimate and tense, and the narrative stays close to Cushla and Michael. If you love grounded historical drama, you must add Trespasses to your list.
Channel 4 has billed it as one to watch in 2025. We will update when the date drops.