by Louise Doyle

AN actress with strong Donegal roots has scooped an Emmy award.

Erin Doherty won the Emmy for outstanding Supporting Actress in a limited, anthology series or movie in Los Angeles on Sunday evening, for her stunning portrayal of clinical psychologist Briony Ariston in the chilling Netflix hit drama, ‘Adolescence’.

A first-time Emmy nominee, the talented English actress is the proud granddaughter of a Carndonagh man, whom she credits for stirring her interest in people and their characteristics.

Adolescence was confirmed as the most-watched limited series and UK title ever in the first two weeks of its airing earlier this year, having already amassed 66.3 million views.

Erin Doherty is regarded as one of the biggest stars of the show. Her character is assigned to the case of 13-year-old Jamie Miller (played by Owen Cooper) who is arrested for the murder of a teenage girl who goes to his school.

The four-part limited series is filmed in one continuous shot. It also stars Stephen Graham, of Boiling Point and The Walk-In.

Erin Doherty features in episode three, which sees her going into a detention centre to speak for a second time with Jamie Miller. The scene has been hailed as “gripping”, “tense” and “unforgettable”. The episode focuses solely on dialogue between Erin Doherty and Jamie Miller’s characters, and is widely regarded as the best episode in the series. It prompted huge debate following its airing.

The gripping story unfolds in real time as the main characters — from the central family to the detectives investigating the crime — search for answers in the wake of a shocking tragedy.

Accepting her award, Erin Doherty thanked her family, and dedicated her special award to her sister.

“Wow, so it looks like I’m going to be banging on about Adolescence and Owen Cooper for the rest of my life, which, you know, there’s worse things.

“I would love to mention every single person involved in the making of this show, because it was the definition of a team effort, but I cant get up here without talking about Stephen Graham and Hannah Walters. You are generosity personified. Even though Stephen called me a tea cosy today.

She added: “This is dedicated to my big sister, Grace. I wouldn’t be here without you. I love you with all my heart.”

‘Adolescence’ was the big winner of this year’s Emmy Awards, winning six trophies in total, including Best Supporting Actor for 15-year-old Owen Cooper and two for Stephen Graham in writing and as lead actor in a limited series.

Sussex-born Erin Doherty has received praise by both viewers and critics alike for her portrayal of the clinical psychologist in ‘Adolescence’. She has also received much acclaim for her role in the hugely popular ‘The Crown’ series for her portrayal of Princess Anne.

Erin Doherty pictured during a scene in ‘Adolescence’ with Owen Cooper.