Brendan Gleeson returns to our screens this weekend — but not in the way you’d expect.
Yes, one of our favourite Irish actors will narrate Kerry: Tides of Time, a new two-part nature series that tells the multidimensional story of the Kerry landscape from its earliest origins deep in the geological past to the present day.
The series, which begins this Sunday, April 27, on RTÉ One, will hear from biologists, historians, ecologists and archaeologists who spend their lives connected to this landscape, providing personal and often emotional insight.
The two-parter will also showcase some of Ireland’s most breathtaking backdrops — from the dramatic Skellig Islands and towering Corrán Tuathail, to the stunning landscapes of Killarney National Park.
So, what can viewers look forward to?
Kicking off the series, episode one takes us deep into the story of Kerry, from its ancient geological roots to the rich human history woven through its landscape.
It opens on a remote, windswept shoreline, where traces of the planet’s earliest vertebrate life have been discovered.
From there, it explores how generations of people have battled the elements to build a life among Kerry’s dense forests, rugged mountains, and vast valleys.
In a nutshell, it’s a tale of survival and connection to the land.
Episode two will then tell the story of a single, magical year as the seasons play out through and across the county’s varied habitats.
A number of leading experts will bring their knowledge and personal perspectives to the narrative, including archaeologist Billy Mag Fhloinn, marine biologist Cormac McGinley, nature activist Mary Reynolds, ecologist Susan O’Donohue and many more.
While the series itself was produced and directed by Katrina Costello, the filmmaker behind the acclaimed series, The Burren: Heart of Stone.
Episode one of Kerry: Tides of Time airs Sunday April 27 at 6.30pm on RTÉ One and the RTÉ Player. Episode two will air on Sunday May 4.
