Bill Burr to Star in Irish Coming-of-Age Comedy Bender Written by Adrian Cunningham
Comedian and actor Bill Burr is set to headline a new coming-of-age comedy titled Bender, which begins filming in Ireland next spring. The film, described as Superbad meets Derry Girls, is written by Adrian Cunningham and takes inspiration from his own late-1970s post-punk youth in Dublin.
The story unfolds during the buildup to an impending papal visit, a real event that gripped Ireland at the time. Burr will play a gruff American record-store owner who convinces a group of teenage misfits that their best (and maybe only) chance to lose their virginity before graduation lies at a massive open-air mass for the visiting Pope. The film promises a mix of teenage rebellion, awkward humor, and cultural nostalgia, set against the chaotic backdrop of late-’70s Dublin.
Lesley-Ann Brandt, best known for starring in Netflix’s Lucifer, will produce the movie alongside Cunningham through their company D6 Entertainment. They’re partnering with Stephen McCormack and Craig Verdon of the Irish-based production company ReflektorMedia. While production plans are moving forward, the director’s deal is still being finalized, with details expected to be announced soon.
Burr, who’s both an Emmy and Grammy nominee, has been on a creative roll. He recently released his eighth hour-long stand-up special, Bill Burr: Drop Dead, on Hulu, which earned two Emmy nominations. Earlier this year, he made his Broadway debut in David Mamet’s Glengarry Glen Ross, performing alongside Kieran Culkin and Bob Odenkirk in a production that ran from March through June.
After directing and starring in the Netflix comedy Old Dads, Burr is set to return behind the camera next year for Born Losers, a film he co-wrote and will direct, produce, and star in. He’s also part of the ensemble cast of Aaron Sorkin’s upcoming film The Social Reckoning, where he’ll appear with Jeremy Allen White, Mikey Madison, and Jeremy Strong. That movie is scheduled for release on October 9, 2026. Burr is represented by 3 Arts Entertainment, WME, and Schreck Rose Dapello.
As for Adrian Cunningham, the writer behind Bender, he’s an Irish-born, LA-based creative who transitioned from being an advertising director to screenwriting. His script for Bender draws heavily from his own adolescence amid Ireland’s music and cultural upheaval of the time. Cunningham is represented by Luber Roklin and Goodman, Genow, Schenkman.
Producer and actress Lesley-Ann Brandt has also built an impressive résumé beyond acting. She previously produced the South African Oscar entry The Heart Is a Muscle, working with Brett Innes, Adam Thal, and Khosi Dali. Brandt is represented by CAA, Luber Roklin Entertainment, and Goodman, Genow, Schenkman.
With its sharp mix of irreverent comedy, teenage mischief, and a uniquely Irish setting, Bender could easily stand out as one of the more distinctive comedies on the horizon. The blend of Bill Burr’s dry wit, Adrian Cunningham’s nostalgic perspective, and the quirky cultural backdrop of 1970s Dublin has the makings of something memorable.
For more about Bill Burr’s recent work and upcoming projects, you can check out his Hulu special Bill Burr: Drop Dead and updates on Deadline’s coverage of his upcoming film projects.
