What is Painkiller about?

Painkiller is a dramatized portrayal of the beginnings and proliferation of the opioid epidemic in the United States, presented through a Netflix limited series format. The show dives into the intricate details of the crisis by showcasing the roles of various players, from the pharmaceutical magnates to the victims grappling with addiction, and the investigators determined to uncover the sobering reality of the situation. Based on journalist Patrick Radden Keefe's article and Barry Meier's investigative book, the series particularly examines the influential part played by Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family in the manufacturing and promotion of OxyContin, a highly addictive pain medication. Starring Uzo Aduba as Edie Flowers, Matthew Broderick as Richard Sackler, and several others, 'Painkiller' moves beyond individual stories to paint a broader picture of the systemic issues and corporate greed that fueled one of the most devastating public health emergencies in recent history. The intersection of personal narratives with the larger socio-economic context aims to provide viewers with a comprehensive understanding of the opioid crisis. Released on Netflix on August 10, 2023, the series attempts to present a multi-faceted exploration of one of America's most pressing and painful issues.

The first episode of Painkiller aired on August 10, 2023 and the most recent episode to air was on August 10, 2023.