Here’s a bold statement: Welsh-language storytelling is going global, and one show is leading the charge. But here’s where it gets controversial—can a series rooted in Welsh culture truly resonate with audiences worldwide? Dal y Mellt, a gripping Welsh-language drama starring Star Wars actor Mark Lewis Jones, is putting this question to the test. The show, which follows a group of Welsh misfits descending into a world of crime, has already made history as the first Welsh-language drama to be picked up by Netflix. Its global appeal is undeniable—the latest installment has been snapped up by TV networks in Australia and Spain, with more countries in talks. And this is the part most people miss: this isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about amplifying Welsh voices on the world stage.
Co-producer Llŷr Morus believes the show’s international success is just the beginning. “We know the second series is already a global hit before it even airs on S4C,” he said. The first series, based on a novel by Iwan 'Iwcs' Roberts and released on Netflix as Rough Cut, proved that Welsh stories—though told in their native tongue—can tackle universal themes that resonate everywhere. “Our stories are original, but they speak to experiences that transcend borders,” Morus explained. This success isn’t just about prestige; it’s about financial impact. Morus hopes the show’s global reach will nurture future Welsh writers, giving them the platform to share their unique narratives. “There are so many untold stories waiting to be heard,” he added.
The Welsh TV and film industry is booming, with a turnover of £460 million in 2023, according to Welsh government data. For actress Siwan Morris, who stars in both series, seeing her Welsh-language work reach friends abroad was a highlight. “It’s lovely to hear from friends in Ireland who’ve watched Dal y Mellt,” she shared. Film critic Gary Slaymaker agrees that streaming platforms have democratized access to diverse content. “The Welsh language is now part of a global conversation, and that’s groundbreaking,” he said. “If you have the right story, the world is listening.”
Director Huw Chiswell is optimistic about building on the show’s success. “There’s something special here—the Welsh language is gaining attention, even if many still don’t realize its significance,” he noted. But here’s the question: Can Dal y Mellt’s success pave the way for more Welsh-language content, or is it a one-off phenomenon? Let’s discuss—do you think Welsh storytelling can compete on the global stage? Share your thoughts in the comments!
The new series will air in Welsh, with subtitles, on S4C, S4C Clic, and BBC iPlayer on January 4, 2026. Don’t miss it—this could be the start of something revolutionary.
