Louisa Harland has become a household name across the UK and Ireland, captivating audiences with her distinctive performances and undeniable charm. Best known for her role as Orla McCool in Channel 4’s beloved sitcom Derry Girls, Harland’s career has soared in recent years. In 2025, she remains firmly in the spotlight, thanks to her starring role in Disney+’s Renegade Nell and her much-anticipated lead in the BBC-RTÉ adaptation of Marian Keyes’ The Walsh Sisters. This article explores Harland’s remarkable journey, her latest projects, and why she continues to be one of the UK’s most searched and talked-about stars.

Early Life and Breakthrough

Born in Dublin in the early 1990s, Louisa Harland grew up in Dundrum, South Dublin, alongside her two older sisters. From a young age, she was drawn to performance, joining the Ann Kavanagh Youth Theatre in Rathfarnham. Her passion for acting led her to London, where she trained at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, a respected institution known for producing some of the UK’s finest talent.

Harland’s early career included a recurring role in RTÉ One’s Love/Hate in 2011, but it was her casting as Orla McCool in Derry Girls that changed everything. The show, set in 1990s Northern Ireland, struck a chord with viewers for its sharp wit and heartfelt storytelling. Harland’s portrayal of Orla, the quirky and lovable cousin, quickly made her a fan favourite. The series ran from 2018 to 2022, earning critical acclaim and a devoted following.

From Derry Girls to Disney+: The Rise Continues

After Derry Girls, Harland’s career diversified. She appeared in films such as Boys from County Hell and Joy, as well as on stage in productions like Dancing at Lughnasa at the National Theatre and Ulster American at Riverside Studios. Her versatility and commitment to her craft did not go unnoticed.

In 2024, Harland took on her most ambitious role yet as the lead in Renegade Nell, a Disney+ original series created by Sally Wainwright, the BAFTA-winning writer behind Happy Valley. The show follows Nell Jackson, a quick-witted woman in 18th-century England who is framed for murder and discovers she has supernatural powers. Harland’s performance as Nell has been widely praised for its energy and emotional depth. The series blends historical adventure with fantasy, offering something for the whole family.

Harland described the experience as a dream come true. Speaking at the show’s premiere, she shared how she embraced the physical challenges of the role, including intense stunt work and sword fighting. She even recounted a memorable on-set accident involving co-star Adrian Lester, which ended up being used in the final cut. Harland’s dedication to authenticity extended to her accent, which she perfected by living in London’s East End during filming.

The Walsh Sisters: A New Chapter

Looking ahead, Harland is set to star as Anna Walsh in the BBC-RTÉ adaptation of Marian Keyes’ The Walsh Sisters. This high-profile project brings together a stellar cast, including Debi Mazar and Máiréad Tyers. The series, based on Keyes’ best-selling novels, promises to be a major event for UK and Irish television. Filming took place in Dublin and wrapped earlier this year, with anticipation building for its release.

Harland’s casting as Anna Walsh signals her arrival as a leading lady in British drama. The role is expected to showcase her range, moving from comedy to more dramatic territory. Industry insiders predict that The Walsh Sisters could be one of the year’s most talked-about series, cementing Harland’s status as a star to watch.

A Stage Presence and a Voice for the Future

While television has brought Harland widespread fame, she remains deeply connected to theatre. In 2023 and 2024, she took on challenging roles in Dancing at Lughnasa and Long Day’s Journey Into Night, performing alongside legends like Brian Cox and Patricia Clarkson. Harland has spoken about her love for live performance, describing it as “living the dream” and crediting her stage work with keeping her grounded and inspired.

Harland’s talents extend beyond acting. She has narrated audiobooks, including the upcoming Nesting by Roisin O’Donnell, and performed in radio dramas for BBC Radio 4. Her willingness to embrace new challenges, from sword fighting to voice work, marks her as a true all-rounder.

Championing Diversity and Irish Talent

Harland has used her platform to support the LGBT community and to celebrate Irish talent on the world stage. In interviews, she has spoken passionately about the importance of representation and storytelling, saying, “It’s in our blood. We’re storytellers. It’s in the soil.” Her pride in her heritage and her commitment to inclusivity have resonated with fans across the UK and Ireland.

What’s Next for Louisa Harland?

With Renegade Nell streaming on Disney+ and The Walsh Sisters on the horizon, Harland’s star shows no sign of fading. She has hinted at ambitions to direct in the future and is open to opportunities across film, television, and theatre. Industry watchers believe she could soon make the leap to Hollywood, but for now, Harland remains focused on telling great stories and connecting with audiences at home.

Recognition and Awards

Harland’s performances have not gone unnoticed by critics and industry peers. In 2024, she was nominated for a Royal Television Society Award for her role in Renegade Nell. The series itself received nominations at the BAFTA Television Awards, with Harland’s portrayal of Nell Jackson singled out for its energy and nuance. Her stage work has also been lauded, particularly her performance in Dancing at Lughnasa, which earned her a nomination at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards.

Conclusion:

Louisa Harland’s journey from Dublin to the heart of British television is a testament to her talent, work ethic, and magnetic screen presence. As she continues to take on bold new roles and champion important causes, Harland stands as a beacon for aspiring actors and a source of pride for fans across the UK. Whether she is making us laugh as Orla McCool or leading a swashbuckling adventure in Renegade Nell, Harland’s future looks brighter than ever.

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