Netflix's How to Get to Heaven From Belfast: Everything You Need to Know
Netflix is set to launch one of its most anticipated new series of 2026 with How to Get to Heaven From Belfast, an eight-part comedy-drama from the acclaimed creator of Derry Girls, Lisa McGee. The show is scheduled to premiere next week, promising a unique blend of mystery and humour that has already generated significant buzz among viewers and critics alike.
Plot Overview: A Darkly Comic Irish Odyssey
The series follows three childhood friends – Saoirse, Robyn, and Dara – who reunite in their late thirties to investigate the mysterious death of a fourth member from their close-knit school group. Described as a darkly comic crime caper, the narrative takes the trio on a frantic journey through Ireland and beyond as they unravel a web of secrets surrounding their friend's passing.
Netflix's official synopsis paints a vivid picture: "Clever, chaotic TV writer Saoirse; glamorous, stressed-out mother of three Robyn; and dependable, inhibited carer Dara have been a tight-knit group since school. Now in their late 30s, but still as close as ever, these three friends are about to embark on the most thrilling adventure of their lives." The story begins with an email notification of their friend's death, leading to eerie events at her wake that propel them into a dangerous and hilarious investigation.
Lisa McGee has expressed her enthusiasm for the project, telling Tudum: "This is the show I've always wanted to make; a mash-up of my two favourite genres, mystery and comedy. We want to keep you guessing and keep you laughing. I can't wait for you to meet Saoirse, Robyn and Dara, and go on this wild, weird adventure with them - an Irish odyssey - full of twists, turns, and arguments about eyelash extensions."
Stellar Cast: Irish Comedy Icons and Familiar Faces
The series features an impressive ensemble of Irish acting talent, led by three accomplished performers in the central roles:
- Roisin Gallagher portrays Saoirse, bringing experience from The Dry, The Lovers, and Lazarus.
- Sinéad Keenan takes on the role of Robyn, known for her work in Unforgotten, Showtrial, and a guest appearance in Derry Girls.
- Caoilfhionn Dunne plays Dara, an award-nominated stage actress with credits in Industry, Andor, and A Thousand Blows.
They are joined by a remarkable supporting cast that includes several Derry Girls alumni and other notable television stars:
- Saoirse-Monica Jackson (Derry Girls)
- Ardal O'Hanlon (Father Ted, Death in Paradise)
- Jeanne Ní Áinle (Bad Sisters)
- Emmett J. Scanlan (Peaky Blinders) as Owen
- Tom Basden (Plebs) as Seb
- Michelle Fairley (Game of Thrones) as Margo
- Josh Finan (The Responder) as Jason
- Bronagh Gallagher (Brassic) as Booker
- Darragh Hand (Heartstopper) as Liam
- Natasha O'Keeffe (Peaky Blinders) as Greta
- Emma Canning (Dune Prophecy) as young Greta
- James Martin (An Irish Goodbye)
- Kerr Logan (The Night Manager)
Release Schedule: When and Where to Watch
All eight episodes of How to Get to Heaven From Belfast will be available on Netflix from Thursday, 12th February 2026. The release follows Netflix's standard global rollout pattern:
- The series launches at midnight Pacific Time (Netflix's headquarters timezone)
- Viewers on America's East Coast can access it from approximately 3am on Thursday morning
- British audiences will be able to start watching from around 8am
- Other European territories will gain access by 9am
The show represents a creative reunion for McGee and the team behind Derry Girls, promising to deliver the same trademark dry wit and cutting humour that made their previous collaboration such a success. With its intriguing premise, stellar cast, and McGee's proven comedic sensibility, How to Get to Heaven From Belfast is positioned to become one of Netflix's most discussed releases of the year.
