Jason Watkins in Oxfordshire-set British drama with “two unlikely detectives” – see your first look

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Channel 4 has shared a preview of its new drama, Dirty Business, which is inspired by true events. The show stars Jason Watkins and David Thewlis as an unusual detective duo.

This series is based on a real, ten-year investigation into England’s water companies. It follows Ash, a former police detective played by Thewlis, and his neighbor Peter, a computational biology professor played by Watkins, as they work together to expose a major scandal involving sewage.

The series begins in Oxfordshire, where Ash and Peter notice fish are dying in their local river. When the water company avoids answering their questions, they start investigating. Peter’s expertise reveals that the local sewage treatment plant is illegally dumping untreated sewage into the river.

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Asim Chaudhry plays Mickey, a sewage plant worker who uncovers some troubling secrets about his company. He teams up with Ash and Peter, leaking inside information about serious problems at the plant.

Watkins praised the story of Dirty Business as “human” and “grounded”.

He was drawn to the series because of its realistic and relatable story, focusing on everyday people who stand up for what’s right.

Dirty Business powerfully shows the quiet strength it takes to challenge powerful systems, and it highlights the very real human consequences of environmental harm and corporate carelessness. Being involved in telling this story felt both necessary and timely.

What surprised me most about this story is how much wrongdoing was simply ignored,” Thewlis explained. “These two everyday guys discovered serious negligence, illegal pollution, and a lack of concern from the company – things that should have been stopped long ago.

Honestly, playing this game has been super cathartic. It’s let me express all the frustration and anger I feel about what’s happened to our rivers and towns, and really feel like I’m taking a stand and demanding answers – it’s about having the courage to fight back, you know?

Chaudhry, the actor and comedian, praised Mickey for bravely speaking up about problems within the community.

He explained that he was attracted to the position because it requires someone to be brave enough to address problems when things aren’t working well.

The character feels a mix of anger, frustration, and a strong sense of duty. I aimed to portray the relatable human side of fighting for what you believe in, even when it could mean personal sacrifices.

The series will also star Posy Sterling, Tom McKay, Jon Culshaw, Vicki Pepperdine, Craig Parkinson, Charlotte Ritchie, Chanel Cresswell, Lucia Keskin, and Alex Jennings, completing the main cast.

Dirty Business will air on Channel 4.

The latest issue of Living Legends magazine is now available, and it’s a special tribute to Dolly Parton! You can find ‘Dolly at 80’ in shops that sell magazines or order it online for only £8.99.

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2026-01-15 21:49