Kieran Prendiville - creator of Ballykissangel - answers your questions. Page 2

from the previous page:

Karla Von Huben San Diego, California writes

Dear Mr. Prendiville,
I’m disappointed that there has been no closure on the Peter Clifford character.

I've heard that Thompkinson doesn't want to make an appearance but couldn't Fr. Clifford write Brendan a letter or give Doc Ryan a call?

I really feel that not knowing what's happened to him is the single biggest irritant about the way the show's going now.

I guess he could drop Brendan a line and let him know what he’s up to now ... problem is, the more interesting you make the letter, the more frustrating it is he’s not there. I’m not sure myself what Fr. Clifford is up to. I like to think he’s touring Japan with Spinal Tap.

Karla continues
Would you comment on your reasons for leaving?

As you can see from the previous answer I ran out of ideas. No, I was afraid of running out of ideas and I wanted to do other things. The actors decision to leave seemed like the right time. But like I say, never say never ...

The next question is from Kathy Swinehart

Dear Kieran Prendiville:

Why after creating such a wonderful warm, light-hearted series as Ballykissangel, did you find it necessary to do in Assumpta (and Peter) in such a violent manner? What a shock The Reckoning was (and we just saw it 10/31 in Seattle) after the preceding (wonderful) episodes. Call me a romantic, but it seems like there could have been a more positive ending for Assumpta and Peter.

Kieran responds
This is a tough one and I respect your point of view ... but like I say, I was worried the show was becoming a bit cosy. The stuff of any drama is conflict and the actors’ wish to leave gave me the opportunity to test Father Clifford beyond anything he’d faced before.

Assumpta’s death forced him to look into the abyss and the community brought him back from the brink. Sure I’ll call you a romantic if you call me one too.

Kathy continues
In addition, we had Series 1, Series 2 and Series 3 of their relationship (26 episodes) and then The Reckoning where in 50 short minutes they finally begin communicating and Peter confesses his love for Assumpta -- then bingo, she's gone. Was there a reason why you didn't spend more time (a couple episodes) letting them (and us!) finally enjoy their relationship?

Kieran answers:
Looking back, I think you’re right. We didn’t give them enough time to enjoy their love and to explore everyone’s reaction. Father Mac would have gone postal which might have been fun. Sorry ... I think we just got it wrong. (I don’t know whether the production agrees).

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