
Derry Girls Shines Again as RTS NI Awards Mark a Decade of Creative Brilliance
If you're even slightly tuned into the cultural pulse of Northern Ireland, the name Derry Girls will need no introduction. This beloved show—equal parts hilarious, nostalgic, and utterly heartfelt—has done more than just entertain; it’s helped shape the identity of Northern Ireland’s creative voice on a global stage. And now, it’s once again taking centre stage as part of the celebrations surrounding the 10th anniversary of the Royal Television Society Northern Ireland (RTS NI) Awards.
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As the 2025 awards were launched with great fanfare, it was impossible not to reflect on the journey of this now-iconic show, which stands proudly alongside international hits like Game of Thrones and Line of Duty , all born and bred in Northern Ireland. These awards, backed by BBC Northern Ireland, Northern Ireland Screen, and Channel 4, have grown massively since their 2015 debut—what started with just nine categories now boasts 18, mirroring the growth and strength of the local industry itself.
Sarah McCaffrey, chair of RTS NI, summed it up perfectly: Northern Ireland has been "punching well above its weight." Indeed, from BAFTAs to Emmys and now RTS accolades, it’s clear that local storytelling and production talent is not just being recognised—it’s being celebrated globally. And as Derry Girls continues to resonate with audiences everywhere, its success is a shining example of what makes this place so special.
What’s exciting about the 2025 RTS NI Awards is that they’re not just a nod to the past; they’re a celebration of what’s still to come. With entries open for content aired or released between June 2024 and June 2025, there’s an open door for the next Derry Girls —or something even more groundbreaking—to emerge. The event itself, set to take place at Titanic Belfast on November 11, promises to be a powerful gathering of the region’s finest creatives, both in front of and behind the camera.
Richard Williams of NI Screen rightly highlighted that these awards are not only about recognising great shows, but also the people—the writers, actors, editors, and countless crew members—who make them possible. It’s a moment to reflect on the vibrant, resourceful, and ever-evolving ecosystem that’s flourishing here.
So as Derry Girls continues to be a cultural touchstone and creative benchmark, we’re reminded that Northern Ireland isn’t just making good television. It’s making a legacy. The RTS NI Awards serve as a platform to celebrate that legacy, honour its milestones, and fuel the inspiration needed for future stories to be told—and told well.
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