Their idiosyncrasies, unconventional charm, and magnetic personalities have become an integral part of our entertainment scene, keeping audiences entertained for years.
Here are 12 of the most memorable Northern Irish characters in fiction, each adding their unique flair to their storylines.
9. Sergeant Marlene Pettigrew (Hope Street)
With Hope Street filmed on the Ards peninsula and featuring the town of Donaghadee, there are plenty of interesting Northern Irish characters on offer in the programme.
The series follows the sudden arrival of DC Leila Hussain, with questions raised about her mysterious transfer from another force, with much of the drama unfolding surrounding this move. One of the most interesting characters in the programme is Sergeant Marlene Pettigrew, played by Northern Irish actress Kerri Quinn. As well as following the sergeant’s working role, the drama touches on Marlene’s sexuality and her feelings as a gay policewoman in the force.
It is this developing side of Kerri Quinn’s character that makes her one of the most interesting to feature in the show. Photo: BBC _ Long Story TV _ Christopher Barr
10. Buddy (Belfast)
Buddy is played by the Northern Irish actor Jude Hill, who is just 13 years old. Belfast follows Buddy and his experience of growing up in the city whilst experiencing the impact of The Troubles.
This Northern Irish character provides an interesting and younger perspective on the conflict that took place in Northern Ireland. His character also inadvertently highlights other perspectives such as the pressure on families and their duty to protect those around them and the often difficult choices this involves making. Photo: IMDB
11. Adam Williams (Cold Feet)
The beloved comedy-drama Cold Feet ran for five seasons between 1998 and 2003, with it becoming a household favourite for many.
Following its great success, including a BAFTA and NTA win, the programme was rebooted in 2016. One of the main characters, Adam Williams, is played by the beloved Northern Irish actor James Nesbitt.
The series follows three couples in Manchester as they deal with issues that most will experience when in a relationship, such as infidelity and the pressures of raising a family. Photo: IMDB
12. Constable Tommy Foster (Blue Lights)
Despite having only one season that was released just this year, Blue Lights has received rave reviews across the board.
The programme follows a group of police officers serving their probationary period with the PSNI. They are also assigned to a fictional police station in Belfast. Constable Tommy Foster is one of the interesting Northern Irish characters still trying to adopt to his new role as police officer.
Having grown up in Belfast himself, Nathan Braniff, who plays Tommy, knows all too well the challenges that the police face on a daily basis.
This authenticity is what really brings his character to life. Photo: Steffan Hill 2022 via IMDB