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Portrait of Nicola Coughlan

Photo: US Luxury · CC BY 3.0

Nicola Coughlan

Irish actress and humanitarian fundraiser

Friend of PalestineNot Palestinian, and stood with Palestine
Born
9 January 1987
Born in
Galway, Ireland
Read Nicola’s story2 videosAsk about Nicola

Why Nicola is here

Resilient Voice for Palestinian Rights

Their story

Nicola Coughlan is an Irish actress, born in Galway in 1987. She is best known as Clare Devlin in the sitcom Derry Girls and as Penelope Featherington in Netflix's Bridgerton, and has been nominated for Screen Actors Guild and BAFTA awards.

She has been one of the most active supporters of Gaza in her industry. She signed the Artists for Palestine ceasefire letter, raised over $2 million for Gaza relief in 2024, started a 2025 fundraiser for Medical Aid for Palestinians with £10,000 of her own money, and signed the Film Workers for Palestine boycott pledge.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Nicola’s path.

  1. Breakthrough in Acting

    Rose to fame with her role in "Derry Girls" and subsequently "Bridgerton," becoming a household name.

  2. Public Advocacy

    Started using her high-profile status to advocate for social justice causes, including Palestinian rights.

  3. Fundraising Efforts

    Has raised significant funds for Gaza through Instagram, supporting humanitarian aid.

  4. Facing Career Risks

    Despite being warned that her advocacy could affect her career, she continued to support Palestinian rights vocally.

  5. Inspirational Leadership

    Inspired fans and followers to organize their own fundraising efforts for Palestinian aid.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Advocacy for Social Justice

    Uses her platform to champion social justice issues, particularly Palestinian rights, advocating against the occupation and for humanitarian aid.

    Watch

  2. Fundraising Initiatives

    Has successfully mobilized resources and raised awareness through fundraising campaigns for humanitarian causes in Palestine.

    Watch

  3. Influential Voice in Media

    Continues to leverage her media presence to discuss and promote awareness on critical issues facing Palestinians.

  4. Educational Impact

    Through her public statements and personal example, educates her audience about the complexities of the Israeli occupation of Palestine.

  5. Cultural Influence

    Shapes public perception and discourse on international humanitarian issues through her active engagement and outspoken nature.

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Watch & listen

Nicola in interviews, talks and coverage.

  • 01Advocacy for Social Justice↗

  • 02Fundraising Initiatives↗

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