Channel 4 announce film on the life and death of Lyra McKee

Channel 4 have announced they will be making a film about the life and death of journalist Lyra McKee, who was murdered in 2019.

The 29-year-old investigative journalist was shot dead on April 18, while observing riots in the Creggan area. An extremist group, dubbing themselves the "New IRA", previously claimed responsibility for the murder.

BAFTA-winning documentarian and close friend Alison Millar has salvaged voice recording's from the journalist's dictaphone so she could narrate her own story throughout the intimate film, titled Lyra.

Millar, acting as director for the piece, explained: "Lyra’s death was, to many, a sharp puncture to the future of a country trying to move beyond its past. I hope this documentary will introduce a new audience to Lyra and her work.

"The film is an urgent story that reflects life today in contemporary Northern Ireland as we approach the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Peace Agreement. Lyra’s story and work represents her generation and reminds us why we cannot allow the dark shadows of the past to return."

Lyra will show the the young woman growing up in '90s Belfast, using home video footage, text message, alongside intimate access to her mother, sister, and partner. The film captures her loved ones' grief and the quest for justice following Lyra's untimely passing.

Louisa Compton, head of news and current affairs at Channel 4, said the broadcaster is "proud" to have commissioned this "poignant and thoughtful film".

"Lyra McKee was a trailblazer in so many ways and we hope this film will demonstrate how important her work was and continues to be," Compton added.

Executive producer for HiddenLight and previously commissioning editor for Channel 4, Siobhan Sinnerton said that Lyra's works "tell us about why peace in Northern Ireland matters to us all".

Continuing, she added: "As a Belfast native, I have always been cautious about making films about 'The Troubles’. But when brilliant Northern Irish director Ali Millar decided that she wanted to make a film about the life and loss of her friend and mentee Lyra McKee I knew it was going to be very special. And it is."

Richard Williams, Northern Ireland Screen Chief Executive, added: "This powerful documentary about Lyra McKee is a special and unique portrayal of the life and passing of the journalist.

"The film amplifies Lyra’s renowned investigative work and seeks answers over her untimely death. We were honoured to support Alison Millar at Erica Starling Productions to produce this emotional documentary sharing Lyra’s voice and message."