Netflix’s latest star-studded drama Toxic Town might be set around the real-life events of the Corby poisoning scandal in Northamptonshire – but eagle-eyed viewers will soon spot that the Jodie Whittaker-led series was actually filmed primarily in Greater Manchester.
Produced by Charlie Brooker and Annabelle Jones, the four-part series is based on the 2009 Corby poisoning case, which traces its origins back to the 1980s. Written by acclaimed screenwriter Jack Thorne (His Dark Materials, This is England), the show follows a group of mothers as they wage a David-and-Goliath-style battle for justice, uncovering a devastating truth along the way.
The series features a stellar cast, including Northern talents Jodie Whittaker (Doctor Who, Broadchurch) and Stockport-born Aimee Lou Wood (Sex Education, The White Lotus) in leading roles. They are joined by Robert Carlyle, Brendan Coyle, Rory Kinnear, Claudia Jessie (Bridgerton), Joe Dempsie (Game of Thrones), and Michael Socha (This is England), among others.
Here’s a first look at what to expect:
Thorne, the show’s creator, described the ensemble as the “cast of dreams,” praising their performances for bringing something fresh and unexpected to the screen. “When you’re with a cast that’s doing that consistently, it’s so exciting to watch and it’s so beautiful,” he said.
While the story is rooted in Corby, the production team chose Greater Manchester – particularly Bolton – as the primary filming location. Over the past decade, Bolton has earned a reputation as the ‘Hollywood of the North,’ thanks to its historic architecture, striking rural landscapes, and versatility in doubling for global locations. The town has previously hosted productions like Peaky Blinders, Happy Valley, It’s A Sin, and A Gentleman in Moscow, cementing its status as a go-to destination for filmmakers.
Toxic Town is the latest addition to Bolton’s growing portfolio of high-profile projects, showcasing the region’s thriving creative sector and its ability to attract major productions. The series is set to premiere on Netflix on Thursday, 27 February, and promises to be a compelling watch, blending real-life drama with top-tier storytelling and performances.
