Derry Girls scoops two top prizes at Broadcast Awards

The Channel 4 hit show Derry Girls has won two awards at the 2023 Broadcast Awards.

The series won Best Comedy Programme and was labelled "comedy genius on every level."

The beloved show also won Timeline TV Moment of the Year for Erin’s monologue in the final episode- an award voted for by the public.

Derry Girls is the creation of acclaimed writer and Derry native, Lisa McGee, who used her own teenage experiences to create a candid, one-of-a-kind, family-centred comedy. 

Lisa responded to the win by posting a photo of the two award trophies on her social media accounts.

Hattrick Productions, who made the show, tweeted they were "thrilled."

The final series aired on Channel 4 in April last year with 1.2 million tuning in to watch the finale featuring Chelsea Clinton. 

The series once again followed Erin, Orla, Clare, Michelle and James growing up in Derry in the 90s during the Troubles.

The organisers said of the show: "Series 3 of the sitcom delivers comedy and emotional gut-punches as Erin, Orla, Clare, Michelle and James get their GCSE results and vote on the Good Friday Agreement.

"The show's impact has been far-reaching, with references in The Simpsons, the House of Commons and Dáil Éireann (the Irish Parliament). 

"It has also been widely praised for educating UK fans about a period of history they weren't taught in school.

"Writer Lisa McGee is the first woman to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Derry, while Derry itself has seen a tourism boom - with a Derry Girls mural in the heart of the city, themed tours, and props from the show on permanent display at the Ulster Museum.

"'The show is comedy genius on every level', said one judge, with another noting the consistently strong performances from the entire cast.

"McGee's writing and ability to create 'loveable, funny characters who you grow to love as friends' was another highlight for the judges, alongside the show's 'belly laughs with a strong political core'."

The awards took place at London’s JW Marriott Grosvenor House on February 8.

The Broadcast Awards wrote: "Thank you to everyone who attended this year's Broadcast Awards and made it such a phenomenal night.

"Congratulations to all our winners this year and to everyone who made the shortlist. 

"It is amazing to be part of such an incredible industry and to be able to bring everyone together to celebrate the projects, teams and individuals that make British television so special."

The Broadcast Awards are dubbed the most hotly anticipated event in the television industry calendar, celebrating the very best in British programming and channels. 

The awards recognise and reward the UK’s most ground-breaking content, creators and channels.