Britain's Most Evil Killers

The documentary examines Mick Philpott, the notorious Derby father of seventeen children whose actions horrified the nation. He was found guilty of murdering six children – five of his own – after deliberately setting fire to his own home in a calculated act.

The programme is a single‑episode documentary that turns its focus onto Mick Philpott, a figure who became infamous across the UK. It presents an in‑depth look at the man behind a series of shocking crimes, framing his story within the broader context of his life and the community that knew him. At the heart of the episode is the disturbing account of Philpott’s actions. He was a Derby father of seventeen children, yet he was responsible for the deaths of six youngsters, five of whom were his own offspring. The murders were carried out when he deliberately set fire to his own house, a blaze that claimed the lives of the children and left a lasting scar on those who survived. The documentary does not shy away from the stark reality of the events, repeatedly highlighting the sheer scale of the tragedy. By concentrating on the details of the fire and the victims, it underscores how Philpott’s calculated decision led to the loss of innocent lives. The programme also reflects on the shock that rippled through the local community, illustrating the profound impact of such a heinous act. In its concluding segments, the episode reinforces the lasting notoriety Philpott carries, reminding viewers of the grim legacy left behind by the fire he set. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of his brutal choices.