History Series / MurphysLaw

* TheUnfettered: Tommy to [[TheInfiltration his job]], which he is remarkably good at and places above everything.

* KnifeNut: In episode 2x01, where a UsefulNotes/JackTheRipper copycat is killing homeless people.

* DeathSeeker: Possibly why Tommy accepts dangerous jobs no one else will[[note: such as in the pilot]] although it is likely closer to NotAfraidToDie.

* NorthernIreland: Where Tommy (and [[JamesNesbitt the actor playing him]]) come from.

A [[Creator/TheBBC BBC Ireland]] CrimeDrama centring on the titular Tommy Murphy (played by JamesNesbitt), a [[CowboyCop maverick cop]] who specializes in [[TheInfiltration infiltrating criminal organizations]].

The series is known for this simultaneous humour and tragedy in Murphy (for which Nesbitt is known), and for its darkness - particularly in later seasons. Infact the series was created specifically for Nesbitt, who had previously shown his impressive acting ability in ColdFeet. The series was nominated for numerous BAFTA and IFTA (Irish) awards over its run and Nesbitt won one IFTA for his performance in 2005.

* AloneWithThePsycho: In 1x02, where Tommy is needed to share a cell with a kidnapper. Tommy even dreams that he will be strangled in his sleep[[note: TruthInFiction]].

* Anti-Hero: {{Subverted}}, mostly. Although Tommy is in something of a CrapsackWorld and is faced with many MoralEventHorizon situations, he continues to be a good and honest cop.

* BlackAndGrayMorality - GrayAndGrayMorality: Tommy will take part in mostly minor criminal activities or look past transgressions if it allows him to maintain his cover or protect his friends. The villains also have families and might look out for Tommy in times of danger.
* BreakTheCutie: In 2x01, when it turns out [[spoiler: Becca]] had been killing the homeless woman, under the influence of [[spoiler: dark religious teachings from a SinisterMinister.]]

* TheUnfettered: Tommy to [[TheInfiltration his job]], which he is remarkably good at and places above everything.
* WhatHaveIDone: The decision for TheNeedsOfTheMany which results in his daughter's death.

A [[{{BBC}} BBC Ireland]] CrimeDrama centring on the titular Tommy Murphy (played by JamesNesbitt), a [[CowboyCop maverick cop]] who specializes in [[TheInfiltration infiltrating criminal organizations]].

* KnifeNut: In episode 2x01, where a JackTheRipper copycat is killing homeless people.

* ILovedNotHonorMore: Although Tommy acts TheCassanova with many woman during his day job, he is rather alone in his personal time.

* KinfeNut: In episode 2x01, where a JackTheRipper copycat is killing homeless people.

!!This series provides examples of:

->''"I can't afford to [[TheNeedsOfTheMany look at the big picture]]. I made that mistake once before and [[WhatHaveIDone I lost my daughter]]. Now I only [[AlwaysSaveTheGirl look at the little picture]] - now I look after my 'own'."''

It is revealed in the pilot episode that Murphy's wife and child had been held by criminals who asked to make him blow up a police station. Murphy [[TheNeedsOfTheMany chose the force]], and lost his daughter. [[MyGodWhatHaveIDone Her death]] has since [[AlwaysSaveTheGirl riddled Murphy with guilt]] and he thus plunges himself into his dangerous work, hoping to drown out his thoughts and perhaps perish [[NotAfraidToDie having done something good]]. Murphy is generally quite cheerful and charming on the surface however, and he often plays around with his superiors and colleagues as well as [[TheCasanova hit on woman any chance he can]].

A [[{{BBC}} BBC Ireland]] CrimeDrama centring on the titular Tommy Murphy (played by JamesNesbitt), a [[CoeboyCop maverick cop]] who specializes in [[TheInfiltration infiltrating criminal organizations]].

A [[{{BBC}} BBC Ireland]] CrimeDrama centring on the titular Tommy Murphy (played by JamesNesbitt), a maverick cop who specializes in infiltrating criminal organizations.

It is revealed in the pilot episode that Murphy's wife and child had been held by criminals who asked to make him blow up a police station. Murphy chose the force, and lost his daughter. Her death has since riddled Murphy with guilt and he thus plunges himself into his dangerous work, hoping to drown out his thoughts and perhaps find eternal peace. Murphy is generally quite cheerful and charming on the surface however, and he often plays around with his superiors and colleagues as well as hit on woman any chance he can.

The pilot episode was adapted into a series of books by Colin Bateman, who also created and wrote for the series. Five series of ''Murphy's Law'' were aired between 2001 and 2007.

A {{BBC}} Ireland CrimeDrama centring on the titular Tommy Murphy (played by JamesNesbitt), a maverick cop who specializes in infiltrating criminal organizations.

A BBC Ireland CrimeDrama centring on the titular Tommy Murphy (played by JamesNesbitt), a maverick cop who specializes in infiltrating criminal organizations.