Michael Sheen fronting gripping series for BBC
Michael Sheen is set to dig into claims of chemical contamination in South Wales, near to where he grew up in Newport, in Buried.
Michael Sheen is fronting a "deeply personal" factual series for the BBC.
Buried sees the 56-year-old actor explore claims of chemical contamination in South Wales, near where he grew up in Newport.
The two-part series marks 10 years since Michael met researcher-and-whistleblower Douglas Gowan, who tried to warn people about "forever chemicals" buried in land near farms and communities, and how they could have lasting impacts on people.
And Michael wants to find out if Douglas' belief was right, saying: "This is a story that has troubled Wales for decades, and for me, it’s deeply personal.
"I first met Douglas Gowan nearly 10 years ago, and his warnings about these chemicals stayed with me.
"In this series, we try to uncover the truth about what is beneath our feet, hear from the communities affected, and understand how something so insidious could stay buried for so long.
"It’s about seeking answers, but also about responsibility - what we do now matters for the future of these communities."
As part of his task, Michael also meets families from the affected communities, local councillors, environmental investigative journalists, forensic scientists and medical experts who all have their own questions.
Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning for Specialist Factual for the BBC, said: “All across the UK, we're only just coming to terms with the possible impact of 'forever chemicals'.
"As soon as I heard that Michael, one of our greatest storytellers, was so personally invested in the story, I knew this was a unique opportunity to create a series to captivate viewers and get them talking about this important environmental issue."
Buried - produced in partnership with the Open University, and co-produced by Wall to Wall and Smoke Trail Productions - builds on the successful BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds podcast Buried: The Last Witness.
Nick Andrews, Head of Commissioning for BBC Cymru Wales, said: "This is a hugely important series anchored by Michael and his extraordinary connection the story.
"It builds on the award-winning podcast and is an important investigation which will shock many, both inside and outside of Wales."
Buried will air on BBC Two, BBC One Wales and BBC iPlayer, with a broadcast date yet to be announced.
