It's truly a delight to see the new characters of Motherland's spin-off Amandaland – many of whom are big names across the TV world. One such person is Siobhán Mcsweeney. The actor has blessed the new Motherland spin-off, and if you recognise her face from somewhere, read below to find out what else she's starred in...
Who is Siobhán Mcsweeney?
Siobhán Mcsweeney is an Irish actor and presenter. She was born in Aherla, County Cork, in 1979. Before starting her acting career, she got a science degree at the University College Cork.
But science clearly was a pit stop, as in 2001, she moved to London after getting a place at the Central School of Speech and Drama.
Her first role was as Julia in the film The Wind That Shakes the Barley in 2006. But six years later she got an even bigger break in Disney's live action Alice Through the Looking Glass, starring Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Alan Rickman and Helena Bonham Carter.
But from 2018 to 2022, she played the role most know her for: Sister Michael in the beloved Channel 4 sitcom Derry Girls, starring alongside Nicola Coughlan, Saoirse-Monica Jackson and Louisa Harland. Since then, in 2021, she became the presenter on The Great Pottery Throw Down.
In 2023, she won 'Best Female Performance in a Comedy Programme', and Siobhán seemed genuinely shocked when her name was called out. She swooshed around the Royal Festival Hall in her shiny red gown as if she was lost in a train station and entertained the room when she finally took to the stage.
In her speech, she said: 'To the people of Derry, thank you for taking me into your hearts and your living rooms. I am impressed with how you encompass the spirit of compromise and resilience despite the indignities, ignorance and stupidity of your so-called leaders (in) Dublin, Stormont and Westminster. In the words of my beloved Sister Michael, "it's time they started to wise up".'
Last month it was announced that she would host the Irish Traitors. She said that she 'jumped' at the opportunity, saying, 'Like everyone, I am a huge Traitors fan. I'm looking forward to meeting our loyal Faithful and delicious Traitors.'
Who is Siobhán Mcsweeney's partner?
In 2023, she was rumoured to be in a relationship with talent agent Kevin Joseph Brady, but it's not clear whether that's still the case.
Is Siobhán Mcsweeney in Amandaland?
Yes, we're blessed to see her play Della, the head chef at Shin – a restaurant Amanda (played by Lucy Punch) is suitably impressed by. She and wife, Fi (Rochenda Sandall) have a teenage daughter who throws an alcohol-filled party in episode one, which is then crashed by a group of furious parents.
She's disdainful at best towards Amanda, suggesting she'll offer some tension to the series. Could she be the one true nemesis to take her on?