Netflix shines light on true story 'that's been buried for a long time'

Netflix has recently released a new series called Toxic Town, which sheds light on a significant yet often overlooked story from the past. The show is set in Corby, Northamptonshire, and it focuses on the real-life struggles of families whose children were born with health defects during the 1980s and 90s. The cause of these health issues is believed to be toxic pollution from the town's steelworks, which was demolished years ago. Many of the actors involved in the series were not aware of this scandal before taking on their roles, but they are hopeful that the Netflix adaptation will bring this important story to a wider audience. Brendan Coyle, an actor from Corby, expressed his surprise at not knowing about the story earlier, stating, 'For them, the mothers and these children, to have their story told. it's amazing. ' This highlights the importance of sharing personal stories, especially those that have been hidden for so long. The series aims to not only inform viewers about the past but also to celebrate the resilience and spirit of the people from Corby. Annabel Jones, the executive producer, emphasized the significance of humor and warmth in the storytelling. She remarked, 'Corby is known for its sense of humour; known for its warmth. I wanted to make sure that comes across through the characters as well, because I want it to feel true to Corby. ' This approach is crucial in portraying the community's character and ensuring that the narrative resonates with viewers. The story of Toxic Town is not just a recounting of past events; it is a call to action for awareness and change. Annabel Jones first learned about the scandal during the pandemic when a friend from Corby shared the story with her. She was taken aback by the fact that she had never heard of it before and felt compelled to bring it to the public's attention. She stated, 'This really needs to be pulled into the public consciousness; we need to be made aware so things like this don't happen again. ' This sentiment underscores the role of storytelling in raising awareness about critical issues and advocating for justice. The actors dedicated themselves to accurately portraying the accents and emotions of the people they represent. Brendan Coyle, who grew up in Corby, noted that the local accent is distinctive and easily recognizable. Jodie Whittaker, another prominent actor in the series, worked diligently to master the Corby accent, even seeking guidance from local residents to ensure authenticity. Susan McIntyre, a real-life resident of Corby, reassured Jodie, saying, 'You nailed the Corby accent. ' This commitment to authenticity reflects the actors' respect for the community and their desire to tell the story truthfully. Toxic Town is not merely a historical drama; it is a narrative filled with hope for the future. Robert Carlyle, who plays a character dedicated to improving Corby, described the series as 'a story of hope. ' He portrayed a local councillor who strives to make positive changes in the community, emphasizing the importance of small actions in creating a better environment. Carlyle stated, 'He's the kind of man who made sure the traffic lights are working correctly and there's a zebra crossing in the right place. ' This perspective reinforces the idea that every individual can contribute to the betterment of their community. The series serves as a reminder of the significance of environmental issues and the need for vigilance in protecting public health. By bringing this story to light, Netflix aims to foster discussions about the challenges faced by the families in Corby and to honor their experiences. The show encourages viewers to reflect on their roles in advocating for change and ensuring that such injustices do not occur again. Toxic Town is a powerful narrative that highlights the importance of storytelling in raising awareness and promoting social responsibility.