Ger Lynch Returns to Carrigstown, Bringing Drama Back to Fair City
Beloved Actor Tina Kellegher Revives Iconic Role Amidst Personal Reflection
After a three-year absence focused on family and loss, Tina Kellegher is once again stepping into the shoes of the formidable Ger Lynch on the long-running RTÉ soap opera, Fair City. Her return promises a fresh wave of intrigue and a compelling exploration of survival and complexity.
A Return Rooted in Family
Kellegher initially departed Fair City to prioritize her two sons, Michael and Brian, and later to care for her mother, Bridget. She expressed no regret over this time, cherishing the daily connection with her children. “I have no regrets spending time with the boys,”
she stated, “It’s a joy and pleasure and when they come home from school, that is usually when everything comes out in the chat.”
Acting, however, fulfills a unique creative need.
The return to Carrigstown allows Kellegher to embody a character she deeply enjoys. “With Ger, I get to be very bould!”
she exclaimed. She appreciates the opportunity to play a strong, assertive woman, a departure from more conventional roles. According to a 2024 report by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, soap operas continue to be among the most-watched television programs in Ireland, reaching over 60% of the population weekly. BAI
A Past on the Run
Ger Lynch’s previous exit from Carrigstown was precipitated by accusations of involvement in the death of Will. Kellegher explained that her character fled to Spain after Sharon threatened to report her to the police. “Sharon threatened to report me to the cops because she believes that I killed Will,”
she recounted, “It wasn’t my fault! Well, I send my sons to do a job and to rough Will up, but they went too far.”
She jokingly vowed to avoid Galway, referencing a Fair City legend that those leaving for Galway never return.
The actress noted the supportive response from her family regarding her return to acting. While her sons were content with her presence at home, they recognized her passion for her craft. The loss of her mother, Bridget, in January has been deeply felt, but Kellegher finds solace in the distraction and purpose that work provides. “There’s an awful void now that mammy’s gone because I would have spent a lot of time with her,”
she shared, “But I’ll be busier, and my lads are at a stage now where, erm, they can all paddle their own canoe.”
From Stage to Screen and Back Again
During her time away from Fair City, Kellegher remained active in the performing arts, appearing in stage productions like Isla, a Hallmark thriller, Murder in G Major, and a short film, Forever Hold Your Peace. She described the experience of returning to the demanding schedule of a soap opera – four scripts a week – as invigorating.
Kellegher is well-accustomed to public recognition from her previous roles, particularly as Sharon Curley in The Snapper. She believes Ger Lynch’s appeal lies in her unapologetic nature. “She will say what she wants, and she is not afraid of anybody,”
Kellegher explained. “She’s a person not to be messed with.”
She also reflected on her early career aspirations, considering a path in law enforcement before ultimately choosing acting.
Her journey began in Cavan town, where she honed her comedic talents, and later at the Druid Theatre Company in Galway. She fondly recalled the encouragement she received from artistic director Garry Hynes, who recognized her “red raw talent.”
She also reminisced about a memorable role in The Playboy of the Western World in Sydney.
Kellegher met her husband, Gordon Wycherley, through a connection to his brother, Don, during a production at the Abbey Theatre. She acknowledged the changing landscape of auditions, noting the convenience but also the impersonal nature of self-tapes. Ultimately, Tina Kellegher is thrilled to be back doing what she loves, balancing her career with her roles as a mother and wife.
As Ger Lynch re-enters the world of Fair City, it’s clear that someone, somewhere, is eagerly anticipating the drama to unfold.
