Few Irish television series have left a mark as deep as Love/Hate. Airing from 2010 to 2014, the show became a cultural phenomenon, capturing the raw underbelly of Dublin’s gangland in a way that felt unflinchingly real.
Written by Stuart Carolan and directed with relentless intensity, it wasn’t just a crime drama—it was a social critique, an indictment of a city where poverty, addiction, and violence wove themselves into the very fabric of life.
Even now, years after its shocking finale, Love/Hate remains a topic of discussion, speculation, and nostalgia, with fans still asking: “Will there ever be a Love/Hate Season 6?”
RTÉ Love/Hate: Where to Watch?
For those looking to experience the gripping drama or revisit it, Love/Hate is available on various platforms. RTÉ Player has previously streamed episodes, though availability can be region-restricted. Amazon Prime Video has carried it in certain territories, and some DVD box sets remain in circulation. Unfortunately, Love/Hate is currently not available on Netflix, though demand persists.
Will There Be a Love/Hate Season 6?
The dream of a sixth season has haunted fans for years, but as of now, there is nothing for definite in line for a Love/Hate to return. Stuart Carolan, the show’s creator, has expressed satisfaction with how the series ended, believing that dragging it on could dilute its impact. However, whispers of spin-offs or prequels occasionally surface, suggesting that the universe of Love/Hate may not be completely closed. John O Connor recently said that there will be another show but this has yet to be confirmed.
RTÉ has remained tight-lipped, neither confirming nor denying potential future developments.
Why Was Darren Killed Off in Love/Hate?
Darren Treacy, played by Robert Sheehan, was the heart of Love/Hate for the first two seasons, but his demise in Season 3 remains one of Irish TV’s most shocking moments. His death was necessary for the narrative, illustrating that in the gangland world, loyalty is a myth and survival is fleeting. Sheehan’s career was also skyrocketing internationally, making his continued presence in Love/Hate unlikely. The moment he was gunned down by Lizzie in the Season 3 finale was a turning point, signaling that Love/Hate was fearless when it came to killing off major characters.
How Many Episodes Are There of Love/Hate?
Love/Hate consists of five seasons, totaling 28 episodes. The show started with a four-episode first season, gradually expanding to six episodes in Season 2, followed by six in Season 3, six in Season 4, and a longer seven-episode final season. Each installment was packed with tension, power struggles, and betrayal, making it an addictive watch from start to finish.
Is Love/Hate on Netflix?
No, Love/Hate is not currently available on Netflix. Despite the show’s international appeal and demand, licensing rights have not brought it to the streaming giant. However, fans can still find it on RTÉ Player (when available) and certain international streaming services. If you’re desperate to watch, DVD box sets remain a viable option.
Who Is the Famous Irish Actor in Love/Hate?
The Love/Hate cast featured some of Ireland’s finest actors, but Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, who played Nidge, stands out as the series’ defining presence. His chilling, manipulative, and complex portrayal of the crime boss made him unforgettable. Robert Sheehan (Darren), Aidan Gillen (John Boy), and Charlie Murphy (Siobhán) also delivered standout performances. Many cast members have since gone on to successful international careers, leading to constant questions about RTÉ Love/Hate: where are they now?
Where Was Love/Hate Filmed in Dublin?
The series was filmed primarily in Dublin’s northside, showcasing real streets, housing estates, and back alleys to lend authenticity to its gritty narrative. Locations such as Darndale, Ballymun, and Sheriff Street became synonymous with the show’s depiction of gangland Dublin. Some scenes were also filmed in Dublin city centre, giving a wider view of the urban landscape the characters navigated.
What Happened to Lizzie in Love/Hate?
Lizzie, played by Caoilfhionn Dunne, was one of the most complex characters in the series, driven by revenge after her brother’s murder. She succeeded in taking out Darren, but in the brutal world of Love/Hate, retribution is inevitable. She was eventually killed by Nidge’s crew, proving that loyalty was expendable and that even the fiercest characters couldn’t escape the cycle of violence. Her arc was a testament to the show’s unrelenting tension.
Why Did Rosie Leave Love/Hate?
Rosie, played by Ruth Negga, left Love/Hate after Season 1, a decision that seemed abrupt but made sense in retrospect. Negga was building an international career, later starring in films like Loving and Warcraft. Within the show’s universe, her departure symbolized an escape from the chaos—one of the few characters to actually get out before the violence consumed them. Her absence left an emotional gap, but it reinforced the show’s commitment to realism.
Is Love/Hate Worth Watching?
Absolutely. Few series have managed to capture the raw, unforgiving nature of crime in Ireland as effectively as Love/Hate. The writing, acting, and direction are all top-tier, making it a must-watch for fans of gritty drama. If you’re into shows like The Wire, Breaking Bad, or Peaky Blinders, Love/Hate is right up your alley. Even years later, the show remains a landmark in Irish television history.
Will Love/Hate Ever Return?
The idea of a Love/Hate return continues to float around, but official word remains negative. Stuart Carolan has moved on to other projects, and the core cast members are busy with their own successful careers. While spin-offs or prequels have been hinted at over the years, nothing concrete has emerged. Still, with the show’s enduring popularity, it’s hard to believe Love/Hate will remain buried forever.
What Happened to Luke in Love/Hate?
Luke, played by Laurence Kinlan, was one of Nidge’s most loyal soldiers, but loyalty didn’t mean safety. He met a brutal fate, proving yet again that in the world of Love/Hate, death is inevitable. His character arc showed the dangers of being too deep in the game, where even the most ruthless enforcers could be cast aside like pawns. His death was just one of many moments that reinforced the show’s unforgiving nature.
RTÉ Love/Hate: A Legacy That Endures
Though it has been over a decade since Love/Hate first aired, its influence still lingers. The themes of crime, power, and betrayal remain as relevant as ever, and new audiences continue to discover the show. Whether we’ll ever see Love/Hate Season 6 remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: it will always be remembered as one of Ireland’s greatest TV triumphs.
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