Saoirse-Monica Jackson Discusses Upcoming Liverpool Drama in New York

NEW YORK, NY — As Saoirse-Monica Jackson prepares to tread the boards in New York City, she reflects on her role in the BBC’s new crime drama, This City Is Ours, set in Liverpool’s gritty underbelly. The series features Jackson as Cheryl Crawford, who offers poignant warnings amid the violent world of drug dealers.

In an interview, Jackson shared insights about the filming experience and her character’s challenges. ‘There’s nothing good about our men,’ Cheryl tells a senior gang member’s partner in a powerful moment of foreshadowing in the plot. Jackson, who has lived in Liverpool for several years, emphasizes how hearing the local accent aided her portrayal.

She recalled, ‘It wasn’t, like, so serious … we had craic off-camera.’ The camaraderie among the cast, which humorously dubbed itself the ‘Muffia,’ contributed to the series’ vibrant atmosphere, despite its heavy themes.

When it came to the role’s lighter aspects, Jackson noted the character’s distinct style: ‘It was so heavy, so hot, to be under it every day,’ she said of the elaborate hair extensions that contributed to her look. ‘Adele Firth, our hair and makeup designer, wanted to convey how much pride the girls take in their appearance,’ she added.

Amid her success in the television world, including a lead role in Channel 4’s Derry Girls, Jackson has recently transitioned to theater, stating, ‘The idea of theatre is scary but rewarding.’ She is rehearsing for an off-Broadway production, marking a new chapter in her career.

Reflecting on her journey, Jackson shared, ‘I always wanted to be an actor. A part of Irish culture is storytelling, and I just knew I really wanted to do it.’ The youngest of three children, Jackson grew up surrounded by a strong storytelling tradition, fueling her passion for acting.

Describing her childhood experience amid the backdrop of the Troubles, she said, ‘British troops were like a presence that was always there,’ and this influenced her perspective, particularly on conflict and division.

Jackson’s parents supported her desire to pursue acting from a young age. ‘I had this blind faith and was always confident in myself,’ she said. However, she also acknowledged the toll that societal expectations regarding body image took on her during her formative years, stating, ‘I’m trying to learn tools to change that narrative in my head.’

Even with struggles, Jackson finds humor in her roles. Her comedic timing shines in both Derry Girls and her Netflix project, which sees her portray a medieval servant with an uncanny wig resembling styles from both Joan of Arc and Shrek.

Jackson expressed gratitude for her close-knit relationships, noting that her mother is a vital support system. ‘I’m amazed at what’s happening around me and the opportunities I’m getting,’ she said.

As she tackles new challenges in theater, Jackson admits to moments of self-doubt. ‘I had a real wobble of, “I’m not as equipped with theatre skills as the rest of the cast,”‘ she confessed, yet she views these challenges as part of growth in her craft. ‘It’s humbling to have those moments,’ she concluded.