Netflix is set to premiere a new limited series called “Painkiller” on August 10, 2023.
The scripted show is a fictionalized retelling of events that explores the origins and aftermath of the opioid crisis in America. The series focuses on the stories of the perpetrators, victims, and truth-seekers whose lives have been forever altered by the invention of OxyContin.
Featuring an impressive cast that includes Uzo Aduba, Matthew Broderick, Taylor Kitsch, Dina Shihabi, and West Duchovny, “Painkiller” is a fictionalized retelling of events that explores the origins and aftermath of the crisis. Based on the book “Pain Killer” by Barry Meier and the New Yorker Magazine article “The Family That Built the Empire of Pain” by Patrick Radden Keefe, the series is executive produced by Eric Newman, Pete Berg, and Alex Gibney, with Micah Fitzerman-Blue and Noah Harpster serving as showrunners/creators.
The show focuses on the stories of the perpetrators, victims, and truth-seekers whose lives have been forever altered by the invention of OxyContin. It examines crime, accountability, and the systems that have repeatedly failed hundreds of thousands of Americans. With Peter Berg directing all six one-hour-long episodes, “Painkiller” is sure to captivate fans of true crime and drama series alike.
Uzo Aduba will play Edie, an investigator leading the case against Purdue Pharma, while Matthew Broderick will portray Richard Sackler, a senior executive at Purdue and scion of the billionaire Sackler family. West Duchovny will play Shannon, a new recruit to the Purdue sales team, and Dina Shihabi will appear as Britt, a veteran sales rep for Purdue. Michael Rothman will play Mortimer Sackler, co-owner of Purdue Pharma.
The opioid crisis in America has had a devastating impact on families and communities across the country. “Painkiller” explores the factors that contributed to the crisis and the ongoing efforts to hold those responsible accountable. The series is filmed in Toronto and is sure to spark important conversations about the opioid crisis and its impact on American society.
Message From the Founder (Me):
As a one-person team working hard to create quality content and celebrate the beauty and diversity of Black culture, I rely on the support of people like you. If you believe in what Blex Media stands for and enjoy the content I produce, please consider donating a cup of coffee. Your contribution helps me keep the site running will enable me to expand my team and improve Blex’s platform. Thank you for being a part of the Blex community!
-Sharifa