Leah O'Rourke
1 titles
Acting
Nov 12, 1988
Newry, Northern Ireland
Leah O'Rourke (born 12 November 1988) is a Northern Irish actress who first captured widespread attention in 2018 with her standout supporting performance as Jenny Joyce in Channel 4's beloved comedy *Derry Girls*. The role not only made her a familiar face on screens across the UK and beyond but also marked the beginning of a steadily rising career.
Born and raised in Northern Ireland, O'Rourke built an impressive foundation in independent film and short-form storytelling before her breakout television success. Her early screen credits include the shorts *Anna* (2013) and *Normality* (2014), followed by a notable turn as Siobhán in the award-winning feature *Half Brothers* (2016). In 2025, she earned a Best Supporting Actress award for her work in the feature film *The Spin*, a milestone that cemented her reputation as a versatile talent.
Beyond her acting résumé, O'Rourke has shared her craft as a drama tutor at the Fermanagh School of Music and Performing Arts. She has also revealed that she auditioned for the acclaimed series *Normal People*, demonstrating her range across genres. In 2023, she stepped into the spotlight in a different arena, competing on the sixth season of *Dancing with the Stars* alongside professional partner John Nolan.
O'Rourke also carries a rich artistic lineage, being the niece of celebrated actors John Lynch and Susan Lynch—a heritage that clearly runs deep in her own compelling performances.
Born and raised in Northern Ireland, O'Rourke built an impressive foundation in independent film and short-form storytelling before her breakout television success. Her early screen credits include the shorts *Anna* (2013) and *Normality* (2014), followed by a notable turn as Siobhán in the award-winning feature *Half Brothers* (2016). In 2025, she earned a Best Supporting Actress award for her work in the feature film *The Spin*, a milestone that cemented her reputation as a versatile talent.
Beyond her acting résumé, O'Rourke has shared her craft as a drama tutor at the Fermanagh School of Music and Performing Arts. She has also revealed that she auditioned for the acclaimed series *Normal People*, demonstrating her range across genres. In 2023, she stepped into the spotlight in a different arena, competing on the sixth season of *Dancing with the Stars* alongside professional partner John Nolan.
O'Rourke also carries a rich artistic lineage, being the niece of celebrated actors John Lynch and Susan Lynch—a heritage that clearly runs deep in her own compelling performances.
