Mac Jones has made himself at home within the community as we meet him in Under Salt Marsh, which is easier said than done in the tight-knit town of Morfa Halen.
His wife, Nisha, works alongside Jackie at the school, and his work on building the sea wall is essential in keeping Morfa Halen safe against the upcoming storm – which if they’re not careful, could see the entire area end up under water.
Father to one-year-old Dash, Mac is ready to build his life here in rural Wales, even working on making his dream home for his family.
But with tensions mounting and a town hiding secrets behind every door, is there more to him than meets the eye?
Speaking ahead of the series, actor Brian Gleeson discusses taking on the challenge of the new role, what he found so charming about this fictional village, and moments on set that made his time filming so special.
What has it been like working with the rest of the cast?
It’s been a pleasure. It’s a big ensemble, and we’re from all over the UK and Ireland, which really reflects the spirit of the show. Morfa Halen is a town full of different kinds of people, and that diversity is mirrored in the cast. Some of us are doing accents, some aren’t, but it’s been great to meet and work with such a wide range of talent.
Are you doing an accent for Mac?
Yes, I’m not using my own Dublin accent. I’ve gone for a more rural Irish tone — it felt right for Mac. He’s a man in construction, running his own business, and it made sense to place him as someone who’s travelled over and settled in this part of the world. It adds a layer to his backstory and helps explain his presence in Morfa Halen.
Have you had scenes with Kelly Reilly or Rafe Spall?
Yes, I’ve worked with both. I was really pleased to hear they were leading the show. I’ve admired their work for years, and knowing they were at the helm gave me confidence that the series was in safe hands.
What was it like working with Claire Oakley, and how did you develop Mac with her?
Claire’s writing has real integrity — it has its own identity, which struck me immediately. I watched her film Make Up and loved it. We met for a coffee before shooting, and while we didn’t talk about Mac specifically, she came away from that meeting seeing me in a different role than I’d expected, which was interesting. Claire’s very open to ideas, but the character is there in the writing — it’s subtle, never over-explained, which gives you room to explore and evolve him day by day.
What drew you to Mac as a character?
Mac is a man who places a lot of value on his reputation and standing in the community. He’s a respected figure — he’s helping build a seawall, contributing to the town’s infrastructure.
He’s seen as someone who’s added value to the place. But what’s compelling is exploring the tension between that outward decency and the triggers that lead him to make questionable choices. That duality is what makes him interesting.
Any memorable moments on set?
One that stands out is a puja ceremony scene — a Hindu ritual celebrating someone’s life. It was a deeply moving moment and a chance to participate in something culturally different. It was definitely one of the most memorable days on set.
What’s your take on the fictional town of Morfa Halen?
Morfa Halen is described in the script as a town of eccentrics and long-standing families. It’s a unique place — outside the city, with its own identity, but also a magnet for outsiders. It’s not just a peaceful retreat; it’s a town full of contradictions and secrets.
That tension between being a haven and a place with hidden depths is one of the most fascinating aspects of the show.