By Ben Thompson
The Disappearance of Madeleine McCann, due to be released on March 15th, has already sparked controversy. Netflix commissioned the series in 2017, but it is only just making it onto the streaming service – production was allegedly delayed due to key figures in the investigation refusing to appear on camera.
The eight-part documentary series will feature interviews with key figures involved with the case, most controversially Goncalo Amaral. Amaral was the Portuguese detective who led the initial investigation into Madeleine’s disappearance in May 2007. Since then, he has repeatedly accused the McCanns of playing a part in covering up their daughter’s disappearance – an allegation that Kate and Gerry McCann continue to strongly deny.
Other controversial theories about the young girl’s disappearance are also to be investigated in the forthcoming documentary – including the theory that she was taken by human traffickers because she was ‘white and middle class’.
On their website, the McCanns issued a statement condemning the Netflix documentary: ‘We did not see and still do not see how this programme will help the search for Madeleine and, particularly given there is an active police investigation, could potentially hinder it.’
Though they were asked by producers to participate in the documentary, the McCanns refused to be interviewed.
A Netflix spokesperson said: “By blending new interviews with more than 40 contributors, 120 hour of interviews, archival news footage and reenactments, The Disappearance of Madeleine McCann goes beyond the headlines and takes a unique look at the facts of the case as well as its impact on media standards around the world.”
Nearly twelve years after her disappearance, Madeleine McCann is still generating headlines around the world. This documentary is only the latest to capitalise on the public’s fascination with the case.
Featured image: WendyWei.pexels With the most anticipated night of the year right around the corner, the big question is looming: where are you going to celebrate it? Whether you dread it or count down the days, are new to the Manchester nightlife scene or are a regular, we’ve got your New Year’s Eve plans sorted….
By Georgia Robinson Featured image and gallery: Ruby Sharp Get one step ahead of your 2025 aesthetic and plan your outfits for the new year with this guide to all the trends we expect to see next year. Why not jazz up your wardrobe with trending accessories or browse Depop and Vinted for a pre-loved…
Featured image and gallery: Kaitlyn Brockley The rumble of trains passing through Piccadilly station, the hollers of touts (“tickets, buy or sell?”) and security (“have your IDs ready”), and the excitable chatter of gig-goers all audibly backdrop the outskirts of Manchester’s Mayfield Depot this dark, damp evening. Leaving the outside chill and travelling along the…
Featured image and gallery: Leo Woollison Crook Angela Cheveau and Kate Carne were crowned winners of the 2024 QuietManDave Prize on Friday. The short-form writing prize is held biennially to honour the memory of the much-loved and well-known Manchester writer and critic Dave Murray, who passed away in 2019. The writers were each awarded £1000…
Leave a reply