Kelly Macdonald’s Double Success: Leading Roles in Major Streaming Series Dept. Q and Lanterns

Acclaimed Actress Takes on Compelling New Roles

Kelly Macdonald, the distinguished Scottish actress known for her impressive body of work, has established herself as a powerhouse performer with various accolades including a BAFTA Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and four Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Netflix’s Psychological Thriller Dept. Q

Macdonald is currently starring in Netflix’s highly anticipated psychological thriller, Dept. Q. The series follows troubled detective DCI Carl Morck (Matthew Goode), who investigates cold cases with a team of misfits. In the series, Macdonald portrays Dr. Rachel Irving, Carl’s therapist, in the nine-part adaptation of Danish author Jussi Adler-Olsen’s novels.

The series has generated significant buzz, with Netflix recently releasing the official trailer featuring Downton Abbey alumnus Matthew Goode. The show is set to premiere on Thursday, May 29.

HBO’s DC Universe Series Lanterns

In addition to Dept. Q, Macdonald has joined the cast of Lanterns, HBO’s upcoming drama series based on the Green Lantern DC comic. She joins an impressive ensemble cast including Kyle Chandler, Aaron Pierre, Garret Dillahunt, Poorna Jagannathan, and Ulrich Thomsen. The series features Pierre as John Stewart and Chandler as Hal Jordan in leading roles.

Continuing Legacy of Excellence

Macdonald’s involvement in these new projects adds to her already impressive repertoire, which includes notable performances in Line of Duty, Operation Mincemeat, Trainspotting, and Nanny McPhee. Speaking about balancing her career with personal life, Macdonald has acknowledged the challenges of being a working mother, noting: “The guilt never gets easier… you never feel like you’re doing either thing as well as you should be.” However, she maintains connection with her family through technology, allowing them to see each other’s faces while she’s working.