Three Irish Shows to Check Out This Week
If you’re craving fresh Irish storytelling, this week brings a diverse trio of podcasts spanning true crime, documentary-style inquiry, and cultural history. From a patient, nuanced look at a controversial case to a meticulous recounting of a high-profile murder, and a philosophy-informed journey through Irish identity, these programs offer something for every listener. Here’s what to tune into and why they’re worth your time.
The Case That Shook Ireland: A Father-Daughter Story
Beginning in 2016, a seemingly routine family emergency spirals into a landmark legal and ethical debate across Ireland. A father brings his daughter to a hospital after a genital injury, with staff suggesting a pattern consistent with female genital mutilation. As the investigation unfolds, the couple—who are from East Africa—are entangled in a legal battle culminating in a 2019 verdict that marks a historic first trial of its kind in Ireland. The couple is sentenced to jail, while public discourse questions evidence, cultural misunderstandings, and the boundaries of child protection policy.
Narration guides this multi-voiced podcast, with Ruth Negga lending her renowned voice to anchor the narrative and protect the identities of family members through character-led performances. This approach preserves sensitivity while delivering a gripping, real-world crime story that challenges perceptions and invites careful consideration of legal and social frameworks in modern Ireland.
Why listen: The series offers a thoughtful balance of legal analysis, ethical complexity, and compelling storytelling. It’s a rare blend of investigative rigor and empathetic portrayal, ideal for listeners who want a crime story that prompts reflection beyond the surface facts.
Kilcoursey: The Unsolved Murder of Fr Niall Molloy
Available exclusively on YouTube, Kilcoursey unpacks the 1985 death of Fr Niall Molloy at a lavish wedding in County Offaly. The show positions itself as a “comprehensive presentation” of all available facts rather than a traditional investigation. Over eight episodes, Liv Kirwan crafts a meticulous, chronological narrative, weaving together evidence, inconsistencies, and the persistent shadows cast by the case. Narrated by Liv’s husband, Marcus Kirwan, the podcast builds a careful timeline that invites listeners to weigh conflicting testimonies and unresolved questions about the events surrounding the priest’s death.
In an era where many true-crime series chase sensational twists, Kilcoursey stands out by prioritizing documented detail, patient pacing, and a clear effort to let the facts speak for themselves. It’s a solid pick for listeners who appreciate a well-sourced, drama-free recounting of a long-running Irish mystery.
Undercover Irish: A History in the Making
After a strong eight-episode first series, Eolan Ryng brings a thoughtful second season of Undercover Irish. The show widens its lens beyond straightforward history and explores how language, culture, and national identity intertwine with everyday life in Ireland. Early episodes touched on topics as diverse as philosophy, fashion (skorts), and traditional ballads, while the new season pivots toward broader questions, including how social memory shapes political life. Ryng describes the project as a journey through history, language, and culture with a distinctly Irish perspective—sometimes personal, sometimes communal, and always inquisitive.
Why listen: Undercover Irish is quickly earning a reputation as a standout in the growing field of Irish history podcasts. It offers accessible but thoughtful narration, a willingness to tackle nuance, and a sense that the show is continually evolving. Listeners new to Irish history will find it approachable, while seasoned history fans will appreciate the depth and genuine curiosity that Ryng brings to every episode.
Why These Picks Matter
Together, these three shows illuminate different facets of Irish storytelling in the podcasting space. One offers a high-stakes, real-life legal drama; another provides a documentary-accessible case study with a careful, research-driven approach; the last invites listeners to reflect on identity, language, and culture through a historical lens. Each program demonstrates how Irish creators can blend sensitivity, rigor, and curiosity to produce engaging, responsible content that resonates with domestic and international audiences alike.
How to Tune In
All three programs are available through major podcast platforms and respective channels. Look for release schedules that fit your listening routine, whether you’m seeking a deep dive on your commute or a longer, immersive session during a weekend unwind.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to true-crime narratives with ethical complexity, long-form documentary storytelling on public interest cases, or culturally rich explorations of Irish history, this week’s crop of Irish podcasts has something to offer. Set aside time to listen, reflect, and let these voices expand your understanding of Ireland’s past, present, and the stories that connect them.
