Jean McConville Murder Series: Son-in-Law Claims Disney Never Reached Out
The Disney channel launched “Say Nothing,” a nine-part series on Thursday. It tells the tragic story of Jean McConville, a mother of ten, who was taken from her Belfast home by an IRA group in 1972 in front of her children. After her abduction, her family struggled for answers about her fate.
Helen McKendry, Mrs. McConville’s eldest daughter, watched the series with her husband, Seamus. Despite having suffered a stroke, she wanted to view the entire series at once, and Seamus noted she managed it well. He described the series as “brilliantly made” but raised concerns about the portrayal of significant events, particularly the abduction scene. He felt it did not fully capture the horror of what happened that night.
Seamus criticized the creators of the series for not communicating with the family. He said they were promised a private screening that never took place. “There was a total lack of communication with Helen and myself,” he said, expressing disappointment given their long history of campaigning for truth regarding Jean’s disappearance.
Mrs. McConville was later murdered and buried on Shelling Hill beach in County Louth. The family campaigned for years to acknowledge the truth of what happened. In 2003, after persistent efforts, her body was found, along with many others taken during the Troubles. The series is based on Patrick Radden Keefe’s book, which discusses the ‘Disappeared’—those abducted and killed by the IRA.
How does Seamus McKendry view the involvement of former IRA members in the series?
Interview with Seamus McKendry on Disney Channel’s “Say Nothing”
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us today, Seamus. You recently watched the Disney Channel’s new series “Say Nothing” with your wife, Helen. What were your immediate thoughts after viewing the series?
Seamus McKendry: Thank you for having me. Watching the series was an emotional experience for both Helen and me. I think it’s brilliantly made in many respects, with strong performances from the cast that truly brought the gravity of the story to life. However, I do have some significant concerns, particularly about how certain pivotal events—especially Helen’s mother’s abduction—were portrayed. I don’t believe the series captured the full horror and trauma of that night.
News Directory 3: You mentioned the portrayal of the abduction scene specifically. Could you elaborate on what you felt was lacking?
Seamus McKendry: Absolutely. The series sets the scene, but when it comes to the actual abduction of Jean McConville, the emotional weight seemed muted. It was a traumatic event witnessed by children, and that terror, that moment of despair, wasn’t fully conveyed. It felt like a critical part of the story was somewhat glossed over.
News Directory 3: You also touched on a lack of communication with the show’s creators. Can you explain that situation and how it impacted your family’s experience with the series?
Seamus McKendry: Yes, this has been quite disappointing for us. Helen and I were promised a private screening before the series was released, but that never materialized. There was a total lack of communication with us, and given our long history of campaigning for the truth around Jean’s disappearance, it felt dismissive—like we were not considered key stakeholders in this story. This is deeply personal for us, and transparency would have made a significant difference.
News Directory 3: Despite these concerns, do you believe the series has the potential to raise awareness about the ‘Disappeared’ and the impact of the Troubles?
Seamus McKendry: I do hope so. The story of the Disappeared, including my mother-in-law’s, is one that needs to be told. While the series has its shortcomings, it provides a platform to talk about the hidden truths related to the IRA’s actions during the Troubles. Many families like ours have lived with this pain for decades, and I believe attention to these stories is crucial for healing and justice.
News Directory 3: The show includes insights from former IRA members. How do you feel about their involvement in such a narrative?
Seamus McKendry: Their perspectives can be vital for understanding the context of these events, but it raises complex feelings for many families. While it’s necessary to have multiple viewpoints, it’s important that the pain of those affected, like Helen and our family, is not overshadowed by narratives that may seek to justify those actions. Balance is key.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Seamus. Your family’s story is incredibly important, and we appreciate you sharing your insights on “Say Nothing.”
Seamus McKendry: Thank you for giving us a voice. It’s essential that these stories continue to be told with sensitivity and respect for the lives that were forever changed.
Mr. McKendry is optimistic that the series will raise awareness about the story of the Disappeared. He believes the IRA has hidden the true extent of their actions. Seamus described the cast’s performance as “absolutely brilliant,” despite the series’ narrative shortcomings.
The show features insights from former IRA members, shedding light on events that continue to haunt many families. Mrs. McConville’s story is representative of countless individuals affected by the violence of the Troubles.