Viewers Slam Channel 4’s ‘Trespasses’ for ‘Dodgy’ Accents

UPDATE: Channel 4’s new drama, Trespasses, has sparked a wave of viewer complaints just minutes into its debut, primarily centered on what many are calling “dodgy” Irish accents. The show, featuring Gillian Anderson and set in a town outside Belfast during the 1970s, has received mixed reactions as fans flock to social media to express their discontent.

Viewers took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to voice their frustrations. One user lamented, “At times, I can’t understand a word people are saying…. It’s not just the accents, it’s the dodgy sound quality too #trespasses.” Another chimed in, “Think I need subtitles on. #Trespasses,” highlighting the immediate communication barrier some are facing.

Despite the complaints, there are viewers who are captivated by the series, which adapts Louise Kennedy‘s acclaimed novel. One fan expressed excitement before the airing, stating, “Looking forward to watching the adaptation of #Trespasses on C4. Enjoyed the book when I read it this summer.” This juxtaposition reflects a divided audience, eager for both authenticity and entertainment.

The four-part series follows the story of Cushla, played by Lola Petticrew, who works behind the bar of her family pub. The plot thickens as she becomes entangled in a forbidden romance with an older Protestant married man, set against the backdrop of the Troubles. The synopsis describes their relationship as “irresistibly drawn to each other” despite the dangers, with the narrative exploring themes of love and peril in a fraught political landscape.

As the show airs, the question remains: Can Trespasses overcome its initial backlash? Viewers are keenly watching as more episodes unfold on the platform, All4.

With reactions pouring in, the drama’s reception could significantly influence its future. Fans and critics alike are eager to see if the accents and sound quality can improve to match the high expectations set by the source material. The ongoing discourse on social media underscores a critical moment for Channel 4 as it navigates viewer satisfaction.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.