NIDGE, FRAN AND CO will be gracing many* UK TV screens for the first time this evening when Love/Hate is premiered on Channel 5 this evening.

(*It previously aired on Scotland’s STV, to a much smaller audience)

The series has already been picked up in the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, The Middle East, Australia and South Korea, according to IFTN.

Judging by the previews from the likes of The Guardian (which calls it ‘Ireland’s answer to The Wire’ and Metro Love/Hate is eagerly anticipated and could make quite the splash across the Irish sea.

According to The Guardian:

Its unflinching willingness to explore modern day Irish culture makes it a powerful and compelling show.

This drama is another example of the way in which a national broadcaster often previously associated with caution has seized the possibilities of a less reverent Ireland to create ambitious shows.

The paper also comments on Ireland’s recession ravaged appearance in the show:

Although the residue of the Euro-driven boom is still visible in the glittering buildings and the fleets of expensive wheels in the car showroom where one character works, the money has run out. “Ireland is f**ked for the next 10 years,” predicts John Boy in one speech before optimistically outlining the killings to be made by criminals at a time when people are desperate to sell and downsize.

So, should we warn our friends in the UK about what’s in store for them tonight in episode one?..

Bebo flashback with Nidge

A gangsta rap soundtrack

Filth

Choice insults

Dodgy dealings

Littlefinger from Game of Thrones (aka Aidan Gillen)

Nathan from Misfits and his Bambi eyes

Yes, we’ve rated the Love/Hate lads’ penis size>

Love/Hate’s writer has revealed the fate of Darren>

Love/Hate season finale: Killings, prayers and mini macaws>