Ingrid Tearney is a strong and influential Black British woman who served as the Director-General of MI5, the UK’s national security agency. She is the first woman to hold this top position in British intelligence. Known for her leadership, she has been awarded the title “Dame” for her outstanding service. Ingrid Tearney appears in Season 1 and Season 3 of the series, playing a key role in important undercover operations.

Trivia/Facts

• Ingrid Tearney is a Black British woman who served as Director-General of MI5. She is the first woman to hold this important position in British intelligence. She is respected for her leadership and achievements. As a recipient of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, she holds the title “Dame.”
• Ingrid Tearney appears in Season 1 and Season 3 of the series. She is portrayed by actress Sophie Okonedo. Tearney’s character plays a significant role in the plot related to undercover operations. However, her role is less prominent in Season 2.
• In Season 1, Tearney faces a critical situation during her trip to Washington, D.C. She is pulled out of a meeting after learning that undercover agent Alan Black has been killed. Tearney is involved in a complex operation, but she prefers to keep her role hidden. Deputy Director Diana Taverner informs Tearney that Jackson Lamb and his team might be responsible.
• Ingrid Tearney is mentioned in Season 2 even though she does not appear. Home Secretary Peter Judd discusses her lack of support for his bid to become Prime Minister. This leads him to make a deal with Diana Taverner. Taverner supports Judd’s candidacy in exchange for a promotion.
• By the events of Season 3, Tearney has resigned from her position as Director-General. She is replaced by Claude Whelan as the new Director-General of MI5. Her departure signals a shift in the intelligence leadership. Tearney’s role remains crucial to the series’ backstory even after her resignation.

Ingrid Tearney’s Relationship with Other Characters

• Diana Taverner – Ingrid Tearney has a professional relationship with Diana, who is her Deputy Director-General. Diana informs Ingrid about sensitive situations but also keeps some things hidden to protect herself. They have a cautious working relationship with some tension.
• Jackson Lamb – Ingrid is suspicious of Jackson and his team from Slough House. She believes they could be involved in certain undercover problems. Their relationship is distant, with little direct interaction.
• Peter Judd – Ingrid does not support Peter Judd’s political ambitions. She believes he should not become Prime Minister. This leads to conflict, as Judd strikes a deal with Diana to gain power.
• Claude Whelan – Claude replaces Ingrid as Director-General of MI5 after she resigns. There is no direct interaction shown, but his role signals the end of her leadership.