Tyneside actress Jill Halfpenny stars as mysterious lodger in Channel 5 drama series The Cuckoo

Gateshead-born Jill Halfpenny is the star of a brand-new thriller on Channel 5, which has had viewers across the nation hooked. 

The Tyneside actress has become well-known for her roles in nail-biting drama series, such as The Holiday, Dark Money and The Drowning, all of which reached a new audience once put onto streaming platform, Netflix. 

Like many North East actors, Halfpenny got her start by starring in Newcastle-based children’s drama series, Byker Grove. Halfpenny played the role of Nicola Dobson from the very first episode in 1989, and remained on the show until 1992 - appearing in 31 episodes overall. 

Following on from Byker Grove, Halfpenny starred in various films and television shows, most notably Eastenders as Kate Mitchell and Waterloo Road as Izzy Redpath. 

Now, she is back on our screen once again, with brand-new Channel 5 original drama, The Cuckoo. 

Here is everything you need to know about The Cuckoo.

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What is The Cuckoo about?

The Cuckoo is a thriller series that focuses on a married couple and their daughter who move into their dream home. They soon take in a lodger, to make ends meet. 

Who does Jill Halfpenny play in The Cuckoo?

Jill Halfpenny plays the leading role of Sian, who is the mysterious lodger that the couple Nick and Jessica take in. 

Who else will appear in The Cuckoo?

Alongside Halfpenny, Claire Goose and Lee Ingleby star as married couple Jessica and Nick. Freya Hannan-Mills stars as their daughter Alice, while Marjorie Yates stars as Aunt Fay.

How many episodes are there of The Cuckoo?

The Cuckoo is a short series, with only four episodes in total.

Where was The Cuckoo filmed?

The Cuckoo was filmed in County Wicklow in Ireland. The show is set in a countryside location. 

How can I watch The Cuckoo?

The Cuckoo aired for four consecutive nights on Channel 5, starting on Monday, April 8 2024. You can stream every episode on the My 5 app or website.