CONNELL’S SHOW-STEALING CHAIN: THE BACKSTORY

Connell’s chain, which glinted its way to international fame in Normal People, will be raffled this month, with the not-insignificant proceeds (we’re talking tens of thousands, at least) going to an Irish mental health charity. But how did a chain become iconic?

In Sally Rooney’s hugely popular 2018 book, the chain is mentioned just once. The silver jewellery indicates Connell’s working-class background and is snobbishly derided as ‘Argos chic’ by Marianne’s uni friend Peggy.

The necklace might have been omitted from the TV adaptation had it not been for Paul Mescal’s deep understanding of his character. The show’s costume designer, Lorna Mugan, told Irish Radio that ‘Paul picked up on it straight away. After the first fitting, he said, “Can I get that chain?” So we went out, got a selection of chains. We credit – and blame – him for what’s happened.’

The rest is history: almost as soon as the show aired, Connell’s chain became a phenomenon. Newspaper articles proliferated. A lustful Instagram account was established. ASOS reported a spike in the sales of men’s chains.

The necklace found fame at a time when we were all sad and sex-starved and bored and scared. We were desperate for some distracting sexiness – and Connell’s chain, around Connell’s handsome neck, provided it.

And now the chain is doing its bit for charity. Paul has donated one to be raffled and, while it may not be the exact chain from the series, it has certainly hung around his neck – which is good enough for us. Visit pieta.ie/ events/paul-mescal before 2pm on 8 June to buy raffle tickets.