Chernobyl: The Full Story, 29 March 2024, Channel 5,

Powerful documentary, Chernobyl: The Full Story, narrated by Ben Fogle, airs on Friday 29 March 2024 at 10.00pm on Channel 5, offers a comprehensive look into the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, exploring the events leading up to the catastrophe, the heroic efforts of the cleanup, and the chilling aftermath. It delves into the personal accounts of survivors and first responders, providing an intimate understanding of this historic tragedy.

The program meticulously reconstructs the fateful night of the explosion in 1986, shedding light on the human errors and systemic failures that contributed to the disaster. It also examines the courageous response of firefighters and scientists who risked their lives to contain the damage, often with little regard for their own safety.

The documentary also examines the immediate effects of the disaster on the environment and the health of those exposed to radiation. Devastating stories of evacuation and the enduring impact on the affected communities are shared, highlighting the human toll of this event.

Shifting focus to the present day, the documentary explores a chilling new chapter in Chernobyl’s history. In 2022, amidst the Russia-Ukraine war, Chernobyl’s nuclear plant was seized by Russian forces, once again placing it at the centre of a potentially catastrophic conflict.

Through expert interviews and amazing footage, the film details the risks posed by military activity in the exclusion zone and the dedication of those who worked to protect the vulnerable plant.

This timely documentary not only recounts the infamous nuclear accident but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks and the resilience of those impacted by it.

Join narrator Ben Fogle on this somber journey as the film presents a holistic portrait of Chernobyl’s legacy, from the harrowing events of the past to the ongoing tensions of the present.