Michael Sheen Leads BBC Series on Wales’ Chemical Contamination Crisis

Michael Sheen is set to headline a new two-part BBC factual series addressing the chemical contamination crisis in Wales. This series builds on the award-winning podcast, Buried: The Last Witness, which documented the environmental concerns raised by Douglas Gowan, who uncovered significant levels of toxic chemicals near farmland in South Wales.

Background on the Crisis

Douglas Gowan discovered that poly-chlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a harmful fire-retardant chemical, had been improperly buried in local dumpsites. These chemicals are believed to be non-biodegradable and pose a serious threat to the local food chain. Gowan passed away in 2018, but his impactful findings have prompted ongoing investigations into the health risks faced by the communities surrounding these sites.

Sheen’s Personal Connection

Michael Sheen, who was raised in Port Talbot, has expressed a personal stake in this story. He first met with Gowan nearly a decade ago after learning about his work online. The actor emphasized the importance of uncovering the truth regarding chemical contamination and understanding its implications for future generations.

Community Engagement and Expert Insights

In the upcoming series, Sheen will engage with local community members, councillors, forensic scientists, and journalists. The goal is to examine the historical context of the contamination and its effects on people’s lives.

• Sheen aims to highlight the importance of transparency and responsibility in addressing environmental issues.
• The series will provide insights into ongoing discussions about “forever chemicals” and their implications across the UK.

Production and Broadcast Information

Commissioned by BBC Factual and BBC Cymru Wales, the series will be produced by Wall To Wall and Smoke Trail Productions. Nick Andrews, head of BBC Cymru Wales commissioning, acknowledged Sheen’s unique connection to the story, stressing the series’ importance in raising awareness.

The series is expected to air on BBC Two, BBC One Wales, and BBC iPlayer. Viewers can anticipate further details as the release date approaches, marking a crucial step in understanding the environmental challenges faced by the region.