Give My Head Peace (1998)
The long-running BBC Northern Ireland satirical comedy that turns sectarianism, paramilitaries, and political chaos into sharp, fearless laughs.
Give My Head Peace - Series Information
- Original Title: Give My Head Peace
- First Air Year: 1998
- Last Air Year: 2024
- Created by: Damon Quinn, Michael McDowell et al.
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy
- Content Rating (US): NR
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (30 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 16
- Number of Episodes: 99
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: January 16, 1998 (United States - NR)
- Networks: BBC One
- Production Companies: Hole in the Wall Gang Ltd.
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
Give My Head Peace - Plot
Give My Head Peace was a satirical television comedy series on BBC Northern Ireland that pokes fun at political parties, paramilitary groups and the sectarian divide in Northern Ireland. The programme is written by Tim McGarry, Damon Quinn and Michael McDowell, also known as "The Hole in the Wall Gang", who also perform as the characters.
Where to Watch Give My Head Peace
Looking for where to watch Give My Head Peace?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Give My Head Peace - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Damon Quinn
- Michael McDowell
- Tim McGarry
Main Cast
- Tim McGarry
- Damon Quinn
- Martin Reid
- Michael McDowell
- Ciaran Nolan
- Lata Sharma
- Gareth Myles
Give My Head Peace - FAQs
What is Give My Head Peace actually about?
Give My Head Peace is a satirical comedy set in Northern Ireland that lampoons the sectarian divide, paramilitary culture, and political absurdities of the region. Written and performed by the Hole in the Wall Gang, it uses sharp humour to expose the ridiculousness of deeply entrenched community tensions.
Is Give My Head Peace based on a true story?
Not a single true story, but it draws heavily from real political events and the lived reality of Northern Ireland's sectarian divisions. The show satirises actual paramilitary groups, political parties, and community attitudes, giving it a grounded authenticity that resonated strongly with local audiences throughout its long run.
Where can you watch Give My Head Peace?
Give My Head Peace is available to watch in the United Kingdom. Check JustWatch for the most up-to-date streaming and viewing options available in your region, as availability can vary depending on your location and local platform offerings.
Who are the creators and main cast of Give My Head Peace?
The series was created and written by Tim McGarry, Damon Quinn, and Michael McDowell — collectively known as the Hole in the Wall Gang — who also star in the show. The cast includes Martin Reid, Ciaran Nolan, Lata Sharma, and Gareth Myles in supporting roles.
How many seasons does Give My Head Peace have?
Give My Head Peace has run for 16 seasons across 99 episodes since its debut in 1998, making it one of the longest-running comedy series in BBC Northern Ireland history. The show also includes a collection of specials, demonstrating its enduring popularity with Northern Irish audiences.
Is Give My Head Peace still running or has it ended?
Give My Head Peace is still active. The series holds a Returning Series status and remains in production, with its most recent season airing in 2024. Its remarkable longevity — spanning over two decades — speaks to the show's consistent appeal and its unique place in Northern Irish television culture.
How was Give My Head Peace received by audiences and critics?
The show earned a devoted following in Northern Ireland, praised for its fearless approach to satirising sensitive political and sectarian topics with genuine wit. Its ability to find comedy in deeply divisive subjects made it both groundbreaking and beloved, cementing its status as a cultural institution on BBC Northern Ireland.
What shows are similar to Give My Head Peace?
Fans of Give My Head Peace who enjoy sharp political and sketch comedy may also appreciate Harry Hill's TV Burp, Key & Peele, or The Carol Burnett Show. Each shares a commitment to bold, character-driven humour that pokes fun at cultural and social conventions with a distinctive comedic voice.
More About Give My Head Peace
Explore further details about Give My Head Peace on these trusted resources.