David Thewlis, Jason Watkins Star in Channel 4’s Drama ‘Dirty Business’

Channel 4 is set to release an impactful new factual drama titled Dirty Business. This three-part series features a stellar cast including David Thewlis, Jason Watkins, Asim Chaudhry, and rising star Posy Sterling, who has recently been nominated for a BAFTA Rising Star award.

Overview of Dirty Business

Dirty Business is based on a decade-long investigation into the operations of England’s water companies. The series showcases harrowing real-life accounts from whistleblowers and victims affected by sewage pollution.

Plot Summary

The narrative centers around two residents in a picturesque Oxfordshire hamlet. Thewlis portrays Ash, a former police detective, and his neighbor, Peter, played by Watkins, is a biology professor. Concern arises when they discover dead fish in a local river. Their inquiry into the matter leads to unsettling and evasive responses from their water company.

As the investigation unfolds, it becomes apparent that the local sewage works is inadequately treating waste and regularly releasing raw sewage into local waterways.

Tragic Personal Stories

The series delves into the tragic tale of the Preen family. They suffered the loss of their 8-year-old daughter, Heather, who died after contracting E. coli 0157. Heather had played on a beach shortly after a storm pipe had discharged untreated sewage into the sea. The family believes her death was a direct result of sewage exposure.

Another poignant narrative follows young surfer Reuben, who suspects that his ongoing health issues, including Meniere’s disease, stem from surfing in polluted waters.

Production Details

Multi-BAFTA winner Joseph Bullman, known for works like Killed By My Debt and Partygate, takes the helm as writer and director. The series is produced by Laura McCutcheon and Meeshan Saxena. Aysha Rafaele serves as the executive producer.

This project has been commissioned by Channel 4, spearheaded by Head of Documentaries Alisa Pomeroy and Factual Entertainment and Commissioning Editor Rita Daniels.

Why Watch Dirty Business

With a gripping story rooted in real events, Dirty Business brings attention to the critical issues of environmental safety and public health. It promises to engage viewers with both drama and essential truths about the water industry in England.