“How to Get to Heaven from Belfast” Is an Ode to Middle-Aged Friendship

The New Yorker

by Anna Russell

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Lisa McGee’s new series *How to Get to Heaven from Belfast* captures the essence of female friendship and resilience in the face of life’s challenges, set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland. Similar to her earlier hit *Derry Girls*, which humorously juxtaposed teenage life with the region’s political turmoil, this eight-episode comedic murder mystery follows a group of middle-aged women reuniting after decades apart. The show centers on three close friends—Saoirse, Robyn, and Dara—who were once inseparable during their Catholic school days. Now in their thirties, they navigate careers, motherhood, and personal struggles while trying to uncover the truth behind the suspicious death of their estranged friend Greta. The series kicks off at Greta’s wake, where the women quickly realize something is amiss. Upon opening the casket, they find it contains a stranger’s body, not Greta’s, sparking a chaotic and often hilarious amateur detective mission. The trio’s attempts to solve the mystery are as awkward and bumbling as their friendship is authentic. Their interactions—marked by sharp wit, petty squabbles, and lingering insecurities—offer a relatable portrait of adult relationships. Saoirse, a burned-out TV writer, channels her frustrations into sarcastic remarks about her career trajectory, while Robyn, auggling motherhood and financial stress, embodies the chaos of modern parenthood. Dara, who has sacrificed much to care for her aging mother, adds depth to the group’s dynamics. The show’s humor lies in its ability to balance absurdity with emotional resonance. The women’s efforts to solve the mystery are both cringeworthy and endearing, showcasing their

Verticals

culturenews

Originally published on The New Yorker on 3/2/2026