Trespasses’ Tom Cullen reveals how his own family history mirrors show’s forbidden love

by

In Channel 4’s four-part drama, Trespasses, based on Louise Kennedy’s novel, Cushla and Michael’s love story is complicated by more than just his marriage. The series, set in Belfast during The Troubles, explores a relationship considered taboo for multiple reasons.

One of them is a young Catholic teacher, and the other a Protestant lawyer – a combination considered deeply wrong by many at the time. Their forbidden romance is driven into hiding, “into secret spaces and dark rooms,” as actress Lola Petticrew, who plays Cushla, explains, because of the danger they faced for being with someone from the opposing side.

Screenwriter Ailbhe Keogan described the difficult situation facing the couple in her story, recalling a real-life incident where a Catholic man who married a Protestant woman was attacked – something sadly common in Northern Ireland during that period.

“There’s actually a threat to life for these lovers,” she added.

Hearing the actors talk about relationships between Catholics and Protestants during the Troubles really struck me. They pointed out how incredibly hard it would have been for couples from different backgrounds to actually be together back then, given all the conflict. But as one of them, Petticrew, said, love finds a way – it definitely did happen, despite everything.

Gillian Anderson, who plays Gina, Cushla’s mother, explained that the two groups were very separate from each other. Director Michael Petticrew added that communities, particularly working-class ones, were largely isolated, making it harder for people to interact. He noted that it would have been easier to socialize across different groups among the middle class.

Tom Cullen, who portrays Michael, shared that his own family background has similarities to the story told in Trespasses.

You know, my family has this really interesting history. My grandpa was raised Catholic, and my grandma was Protestant – both Irish, but from different sides. It’s always been talked about how challenging that was for them, and it’s a story that’s been passed down through the generations.

Petticrew explained that Cushla and Michael were initially attracted to each other because they connected intellectually and shared a truly special, almost indescribable bond.

I believe Tom’s performance as Michael was crucial to the story’s success. Another actor might have simply played him as an attractive older man, but Tom brought a deep, overflowing love to the character.

Cullen explained that Michael is drawn to Cushla for the same qualities he admires in his co-star, Lola. He described Lola as strong, funny, smart, and talented, and said both he and Michael are captivated by those traits.

It was surprisingly simple, thanks to Lola. I really focused on showing a lot of vulnerability in my performance, because her character gives Cushla a reason to enjoy life – something he’s been searching for all along.

If circumstances were different, their love wouldn’t be so difficult, and that’s what makes their situation so poignant. They feel so strongly for each other that they’re prepared to face any danger just to be together.

Trespasses premieres on Channel 4 on Sunday 9th November 2025.

Read More

2025-11-09 12:34