Veteran Irish republican Marian Price has initiated legal action against Disney+ over her portrayal in the series “Say Nothing,” which depicts her as the individual responsible for the 1972 murder of Jean McConville. The series, based on Patrick Radden Keefe’s 2018 book, has been streaming on Hulu in the U.S. and Disney+ internationally since November 2024.

Background of the Case

Jean McConville, a mother of ten, was abducted from her Belfast home in 1972 by the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and later found murdered. Her death remains one of the most controversial incidents of the Northern Ireland conflict, with no prosecutions to date. “Say Nothing” dramatizes these events, implicating Price in McConville’s killing.

Marian Price’s Response

Price, also known as Marian McGlinchey, vehemently denies any involvement in McConville’s death. Her solicitor, Peter Corrigan, stated: “The publication in question depicts our client, Marian Price, as the person responsible for murdering Ms. Jean McConville. Given the context, it is difficult to envisage a more egregious allegation than the one leveled against our client.” He emphasized that the allegation lacks any supporting evidence and accused Disney of causing “immeasurable harm in exchange for greater streaming success.”

Legal Proceedings

Price’s legal team has issued pre-action correspondence to Disney, marking the commencement of formal legal proceedings. They argue that the series’ portrayal is not only unfounded but also damaging to Price’s reputation. As of now, Disney has not publicly responded to the lawsuit.

Reactions from McConville’s Family

Michael McConville, one of Jean’s sons, expressed discomfort with his mother’s death being used as entertainment. He remarked, “I don’t think it’s right that my mother’s murder is being used as a form of entertainment. It’s still a very painful subject for our family.”

About Marian Price

Born in 1954 in Belfast, Marian Price joined the Provisional IRA in 1971 alongside her sister, Dolours. They were involved in the 1973 Old Bailey bombing in London, leading to Price’s conviction and imprisonment. She was released in 1980 due to health issues stemming from a hunger strike. In the 1990s, Price became a vocal critic of Sinn Féin’s peace strategy. She faced further legal issues in 2009 and 2011 but was released in 2013.

Implications for Media and Historical Representation

This lawsuit underscores the challenges media companies face when dramatizing real-life events, especially those involving unresolved crimes and living individuals. It raises questions about the balance between creative expression and factual accuracy, as well as the ethical considerations of portraying sensitive historical events.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case will likely prompt discussions about the responsibilities of content creators in representing historical events and individuals. It also highlights the enduring sensitivities surrounding the Troubles and the importance of respectful and accurate portrayals of its complex history.

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