The BAFTA Cymru-winning BBC drama Steeltown Murders is now streaming for free on BBC iPlayer. The four-part miniseries, praised as 'outstanding and authentic,' is based on the real-life murders committed by Joseph Kappen in Port Talbot, South Wales, in the 1970s.
Plot and Production
Written by Ed Whitmore and directed by Marc Evans, the series follows DCI Paul Bethell as he reopens the cold case of three unsolved murders that terrorized the community. The real-life detective, Paul Bethell, served as a consultant on the production, ensuring accuracy. Filming took place entirely on location in South Wales starting in November 2022.
Cast and Reception
The drama stars Philip Glenister and Steffan Rhodri as the detectives, with support from Keith Allen, Sharon Morgan, Karen Paullada, Richard Harrington, and Nia Roberts. Glenister stated he felt a 'responsibility' to portray the story respectfully for the victims' families. The series won the BAFTA Cymru Award for Best Television Drama and Best Costume Design, receiving five nominations total. Critics described it as 'moving and engrossing,' with one noting it 'powerfully evokes both the horror of the crimes and the reluctance of the community to reopen the wounds.' Viewers praised its authenticity, with one IMDB user from the area confirming the case 'cast a big shadow over the whole area.' Another called it 'outstanding multidimensional true crime.'
Streaming Details
All four episodes of Steeltown Murders are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
