Chernobyl 2019
“What is the cost of lies?”
- Status
- Ended
- First Aired
- May 6, 2019
- Last Aired
- June 3, 2019
- Format
- 1 season · 5 eps
- Highest Rated Episode
- S1E5 "Vichnaya Pamyat" (★ 9.3/10)
- Created By
- Craig Mazin
- Network
- HBO
- Where to Stream
- HBO Max Amazon Channel, YouTube TV, HBO Max
What is Chernobyl?
Chernobyl is a 2019 historical drama television miniseries that depicts the catastrophic nuclear accident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in 1986. The series was created and written by Craig Mazin and directed by Johan Renck.
- Type
- TV series
- Year
- 2019
- Status
- Ended
- Episodes
- 5
- First aired
- May 6, 2019
- Last aired
- Jun 3, 2019
- Original language
- EN
- Origin
- US
- Networks
- HBO
- Genres
- Drama
- Updated
At a glance
- Rating
- ★ TMDB users: 8.7/10 from 8,040 votes
- Format
- 1 season · 5 episodes
- Status
- Ended
- Network
- HBO
Where to watch in United States
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Streaming availability data provided by JustWatch via TMDB. Availability changes by country and date; verify on the provider before subscribing or purchasing.
How long to binge?
Estimate the schedule using 5 episodes and an average 45-minute runtime.
Trailer
Overview
Chernobyl is a 2019 historical drama television miniseries that depicts the catastrophic nuclear accident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in 1986. The series was created and written by Craig Mazin and directed by Johan Renck. It stars Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgard, and Emily Watson. The show focuses on the events surrounding the explosion of Reactor 4 at the plant located near Pripyat, Ukraine, which occurred on April 26, 1986. The miniseries portrays the disaster as one of the worst in nuclear power generation history and highlights the efforts of individuals who responded to the crisis. It examines the immediate aftermath, the cleanup operations, and the sacrifices made by personnel to prevent further catastrophe. The series was released on Prime Video and consists of five episodes. It received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the historical event and the performances of its cast. The show explores both the human and systemic factors involved in the accident, including issues related to reactor design and personnel training.
Should you watch it?
“A gripping retelling of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster and its harrowing aftermath.”
- Powerful historical storytelling
- Strong performances
- Authentic recreation of events
- Heavy subject matter
- Slow pacing in parts
You're drawn to historical dramas based on real events.
Suitable for mature audiences due to disturbing themes and historical tragedy.
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Cast
Episode guide
Spoiler-Safe Browsing Progress
Season 1 · 5 episodes
Open the complete Season 1 guide & lore primer →- E1 1:23:45 Mytharc May 6, 2019
- E2 Please Remain Calm Core May 13, 2019
- E3 Open Wide, O Earth Core May 20, 2019
- E4 The Happiness of All Mankind Core May 27, 2019
- E5 Vichnaya Pamyat Mytharc Jun 3, 2019
Frequently asked questions
Is Chernobyl based on a true story?
Yes, it is based on the real 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
How many episodes are there?
The series has one season with five episodes.
Who stars in Chernobyl?
The main cast includes Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgard, and Emily Watson.
Where can I watch it?
It is available on HBO Max and other streaming platforms.
Is it appropriate for children?
No, it is rated TV-MA and contains mature themes.
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