Hit TV show Young Offenders returns for fifth series

THE Cork-based hit TV show The Young Offendersis set for a fifth series, with the announcement today that the BBC, in association with RTÉ, has recommissioned the popular comedy.

Producers Vico Films have said the hilarious misadventures of hapless heroes Conor (Alex Murphy) and Jock (Chris Walley) will continue, alongside their long- suffering mother/guardian Mairéad (Hilary Rose), former nemesis Garda Sergeant Tony Healy (Dominic MacHale) and the unpredictable Billy Murphy (Shane Casey).

Created by Peter Foott, and based on his original film, the new six-part series for BBC iPlayer, BBC One and RTÉ One, will see Conor reunited with Jock in Cork after both spent series four in different prisons, in different parts of the world.

The critically-acclaimed show will see the return of characters including principal Walsh (PJ Gallagher), Siobhán (Jennifer Barry), Linda (Demi Isaac), Orla (Orla Fitzgerald) and Star (Rylee Hosford).

“We have the funniest, most heart-warming stories in the new season that will show Conor and Jock getting into scrapes like never before,” said creator Peter Foott. 

“We hope audiences will share our excitement to have all the gang back together, bringing more laughs, thrills and moments to remember to TV screens.” Jon Petrie, BBC director of comedy, said: “We’re thrilled to reunite with Conor and Jock in Cork for more gloriously misguided misadventures.

"This fifth series is brimming with the wild heart, raucous charm and razor-sharp wit that have made The Young Offenders a true fan favourite. 

RTÉ's executive producer of comedy Justin Healy said: “Once again, we are thrilled another new season of The Young Offenders will air on RTÉ. Irish comedy is making a real impact on the international stage, and RTÉ is delighted to play its part in supporting the creative talent we have here, something that is central to what we do.” The Young Offenders has kept audiences entertained since 2016 with series four among the top three comedies across broadcasters for 16–34-year-olds in 2024 (excluding specials).

The Young Offenders is a Vico Films production for BBC Three and iPlayer. It was commissioned by BBC director of comedy Jon Petrie.

Casting for the final roles in series 5 is now taking place, and applicants can submit an audition at www.corkcasting.com