Channel 4’s latest factual drama, Dirty Business, dives deep into a decade-long investigation of England’s water companies, revealing the real-life stories of whistleblowers and victims affected by sewage-polluted water. This gripping three-part series uncovers environmental negligence and corporate indifference that have endangered communities.
The story begins in a peaceful Oxfordshire village where two neighbours, Ash and Peter, discover dying fish in the local river. Their concerns lead them to question the water company, only to be met with evasive answers that spark a continuing investigation. Ash, a vigilant retired police detective, is portrayed by David Thewlis, known for his roles in Harry Potter and Sherlock. Peter, a Professor of Computational Biology, is played by Jason Watkins, celebrated for his work in The Crown and McDonald & Dodds.
Asim Chaudhry joins the cast as Mickey, an insider at the wastewater treatment plant who becomes a whistleblower. His character provides pivotal insights into the ongoing environmental crisis caused by the facility’s failure to properly treat sewage.
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The drama also highlights heartbreaking true stories, including the Preen family’s tragedy after their daughter Heather’s death linked to e-coli contamination on a beach affected by raw sewage discharge, and young surfer Reuben, whose life is changed forever by chronic illness likely caused by polluted waters.
Supporting actors include Posy Sterling, Tom McKay, Jon Culshaw, Vicky Pepperdine, Craig Parkinson, Charlotte Ritchie, Chanel Cresswell, Lucia Keskin, and Alex Jennings.
Filming took place across several locations in Kent, including Kingsgate Bay and Louisa Bay in Broadstairs, Castle Farm in Sevenoaks, and Riverside in Eynsford. The Kent Film Office confirmed these picturesque settings provided the backdrop for the series, despite their usually high water quality standards.
Dirty Business is set to premiere on Channel 4 on Monday, February 23, airing at 9 pm with new episodes following on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings in the same timeslot. This intense and eye-opening series offers a powerful look at environmental accountability and the courage required to confront longstanding corporate misconduct.