EP2. 'Devil in the Hills': Jim Sheridan on the Sophie Toscan du Plantier Murder

Cassandra Voices Podcast

Jim Sheridan needs little introduction. His films, including ‘My Left Foot’ (1989), ‘The Field’ (1990), ‘In the Name of the Father’ (1993) and ‘In America’ (2003) have gained both critical acclaim and global audiences. It is fair to say they have helped define the Irish national character.

In recent times, Sheridan has taken a keen interest in the unsolved murder of the French television producer Sophie Toscan du Plantier in west Cork in 1996, producing a series for Sky called ‘Murder at the Cottage’ in 2021. During that period, he became acquainted with Ian Bailey, who was arrested by the Garda Síochána in connection with the murder, but was never charged. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) found insufficient evidence to proceed to trial.

Earlier this year, Cassandra Voices arranged an interview with Ian Bailey, which was supposed to take place in west Cork at the end of January. However, on January 21 Ian Bailey died of a heart attack – days before the interview was to take place. Thankfully Jim Sheridan agreed to give us an exclusive interview on the murder.

Jim Sheridan suggests we re-visit our opinions, and prejudices. He discusses the symbolism of the case, exploring the legacy of famine, the endurance of a colonial mindset and the eccentric character of Ian Bailey.

Episode Credits:

Host: Frank Armstrong

Music: Loafing Heroes - ​​https://theloafingheroes.bandcamp.com

Introduction Music: ‘Wonder’ from Catrin Finch & Aoife Ní Bhriain’s album Double You.

Produced by Massimiliano Galli - https://www.massimilianogalli.com

https://cassandravoices.com/society-culture/the-cassandra-voices-podcast/