This four-part made-for-TV drama focuses up close on a Dublin couple with four children. Charlo is a hustler, a head-first footballer, a thief, abusive. Paula drinks, objects to Charlie's thievery and adultery without the will to chuck him out. John Paul worships his father who's initiating him into the world of beer and football but recoils at Charlo's treatment of mum; asthma and misbehavior at school follow. Daughter Nicola is a young woman, starting work in a garment factory. When Charlo begins to stare at her, she's frightened and Paula's furious.

Sean McGinley
Charlo Spencer

Ger Ryan
Paula Spencer

Neilí Conroy
Nicola Spencer

Barry Ward
John Paul Spencer
Gemma Butterly
Leanne Spencer
Jake Williams
Jack Spencer

Des McAleer
Ray Harris

Pauline McLynn
Denise

Vinnie McCabe
Mr. Connolly

Donna Dent
Dymphna
David Gorry
Mark

Lorcan Cranitch
Tutorial Teacher

Martin Murphy
Mr. Busy Busy

John Cronin
Fats
Darren Kenny
Tony