Siobhan Finneran is best known as Sarah O’Brien in ‘Downton Abbey’, Janice Garvey in ‘Benidorm’, and Clare in ‘Happy Valley’. She has also appeared in ‘The Syndicate’ and ‘Rita, Sue and Bob Too’.
Films
- The RitualInnkeeper2017
- Dad’s ArmyMrs. Pike2016
- A Patch of FogSandy2015
- The Selfish GiantMrs. Swift2013
- Rita, Sue and Bob TooSue1987
TV shows
- TimeMarie2021
- The StrangerDS Johanna Griffin2020
- Happy ValleyClare Cartwright2014–2016, 2023
- Downton AbbeySarah O’Brien2010–2013
- BenidormJanice Garvey2007–2009
- The SyndicateMandy2012
- Coronation StreetNatalie Barnes2004
- The CopsWPC Debbie Keane1998
- Common as MuckJulie1994
- TrainerBeverley1991
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About Siobhan Finneran
Siobhan Finneran is an English actress with a career spanning over three decades on stage and screen. She earned widespread recognition for her role as the scheming lady’s maid Sarah O’Brien in the period drama *Downton Abbey* (2010–2013) and as the brassy Janice Garvey in the ITV comedy *Benidorm* (2007–2009). Her later work includes critically acclaimed performances in the BBC crime drama…
FAQs
Why did Siobhan Finneran leave Downton Abbey?
Finneran chose to leave Downton Abbey after three series as her character Sarah O’Brien had a natural conclusion. She did not want to extend the role indefinitely and wished to pursue other projects.
Is Siobhan Finneran related to any other actors?
Yes, she is the sister of actress Judy Holt. Judy is known for roles in Clocking Off, The Chase, and Life on Mars.
What is Siobhan Finneran’s most famous role?
She is widely known for two roles: Sarah O’Brien in Downton Abbey (2010–2013) and Clare Cartwright in Happy Valley (2014–2016, 2023). Both earned her significant critical acclaim.
Has Siobhan Finneran won any awards?
She has not won major individual acting awards but was part of the ensemble cast of Happy Valley that won a BAFTA for Best Drama Series. She has also been nominated for a Royal Television Society Award.
What was Siobhan Finneran’s first major film role?
Her first major film role was as Sue in the 1987 British classic Rita, Sue and Bob Too, directed by Alan Clarke.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026