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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Entertainment
Sophie Collins

Derry Girls writer reveals brilliant 'secret code' for Liam Neeson on set as guest appearance kept secret

Liam Neeson made a surprise appearance on the Irish fan-favourite comedy series, Derry Girls, last night.

The Irish actor played a police inspector in the first episode of the final season for Channel 4.

He questions the show’s beloved main characters after a burglary at their school and says: “We have had several reports of suspicious activity on the grounds of Our Lady Immaculate College this evening.

“Following up on that lead we discover you five on the premises, that the locks of the side door have been forced and the alarm system deactivated.

READ MORE: Derry Girls bosses lift lid on 'nervewracking' day directing guest star Liam Neeson

“Now we can’t get hold of the headmistress, Sister George Michael, but the caretaker has informed us that a substantial amount of computer equipment seems to have vanished.”

Fans went wild as soon as they spotted the Hollywood heavyweight and many were wondering how they kept his appearance on the show so secret in the run-up to the season start.

The show’s creator Lisa McGee took to Twitter after the episode and revealed that they had a code name for Neeson on set to help keep his identity under wraps.

Derry Girls writer reveals 'secret code' for Liam Neeson on set as guest appearance kept secret (Channel 4)

She said: “Thanks for watching lads! Our code name for Liam during the shoot was ‘ the big fella’ arguably quite an easily cracked code.

“What an honour to have him in our wee show.

“Our very own Northern Star.”

Fans of the show have been hailing McGee online with one writing: “Love Derry Girls.

“Without a doubt one of the best not only Irish comedies but one of the best in the world.

“It’s no wonder Liam wanted to be in it. But what a buzz to see him in Derry Girls.

“Didn't think it could get any better.”

Another said: “What a super return Lisa - the only thing my 15-yr-old Bangor girl will watch with me.

“And what a coup in the form of 'the big fella'. Fan-bloody-tastic show. Forgot how good it is. Love it!”

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