Michael Sheen will lead a new two-part documentary titled Buried, produced by the BBC, which investigates claims of chemical contamination in his hometown of South Wales. The series delves into the long-standing issues surrounding toxic substances, known as “forever chemicals,” that have reportedly been buried in the region’s land, causing potential harm to local communities.
Sheen, who has been an outspoken advocate for his home region, described the project as deeply personal. “This is a story that has troubled Wales for decades,” he stated. In Buried, the actor aims to uncover the truth surrounding these contamination claims and the legacy of researcher and whistleblower Douglas Gowan, who tragically passed away before his concerns could gain the necessary attention.
Exploring the Impact of Chemical Contamination
Ten years ago, Sheen met Gowan, who was sounding the alarm about the potential dangers posed by the chemicals. Gowan believed that the improper disposal of these substances could have serious repercussions for the health of residents and the environment. The documentary will follow Sheen as he engages with affected families, local officials, environmental journalists, forensic scientists, and medical experts, all of whom are seeking clarity regarding the region’s toxic history.
“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,” Sheen remarked. He emphasized that the project not only aims to find answers but also to promote responsibility, stressing that current actions will impact the future of these communities.
Throughout recent years, Sheen has increasingly taken on the role of a champion for Wales. He has self-financed a new national theatre to address the void left by the anticipated 2024 closure of National Theatre Wales. Additionally, he undertook a significant debt acquisition initiative, which resulted in the cancellation of £1 million (approximately $1.29 million) owed by 900 individuals, using £100,000 (around $129,000) of his own funds. This endeavor was featured in a Channel 4 documentary titled Michael Sheen’s Secret Million Pound Giveaway.
Documentary Production and Broadcast Details
Buried is commissioned by Jack Bootle, head of commissioning for specialist factual content, alongside Nick Andrews, head of commissioning for BBC Cymru Wales. The commissioning editors include Tom Coveney, head of commissioning for science, and Julian Carey for BBC Cymru Wales. The executive producers are Michael Fraser for Wall to Wall Productions, along with Dan Ashby and Lucy Taylor for Smoke Trail Productions. The series producer is Jacci Parry, while Mags Gavan serves as the director.
This co-production builds on the success of Smoke Trail’s BBC Sounds podcast, also titled Buried, and will be available to viewers on BBC Two, BBC One Wales, and BBC iPlayer. The documentary aims to shed light on an issue that has significant implications for the health and well-being of local populations, prompting a nationwide conversation about environmental responsibility and community advocacy.
