Is the movie Silkwood a true story?

Based on the true story of Karen Silkwood, who died in an auto accident in 1974 just as she was beginning to bring national attention to the Kerr-McGee plant, this ABC Motion Pictures presentation is an alarming focus on a national hazard — the hurried up, focuses on the workers themselves, powerfully dramatizing the …

What happened to the Kerr-McGee plant?

The plant was finally shut down in 1976 owing to bankruptcy caused by negative public opinion, investor withdrawals, and fraud convictions [5]. The Atomic Energy Commission awarded Kerr-McGee a $9.6 million contract to produce fuel rods for experimental nuclear reactors using plutonium instead of uranium.

Who killed Silkwood?

An Oklahoma State Trooper who investigated the accident reported that Silkwood’s death was a result of a classic, one-car sleeping-driver accident. Later, blood tests performed as part of the autopsy showed Silkwood had 0.35 milligrams of methaqualone (Quaalude) per 100 milliliters of blood at the time of her death.

Did Silkwood win any awards?

Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress – Motion Picture
Silkwood/Awards

What did Karen Silkwood steal from Kerr-McGee?

During the week of November 5, 1972, she was repeatedly exposed to plutonium radiation. She further was accused of stealing plutonium, traces of which were found by Kerr-McGee officials in her apartment.

How was Karen Silkwood contaminated?

William Paul was the chief attorney for Kerr-McGee. The estate presented evidence that the autopsy proved Silkwood was contaminated with plutonium at her death. To prove that the contamination was sustained at the plant, evidence was given by a series of witnesses who were former employees of the facility.

What did Karen Silkwood reveal?

The estate presented evidence that the autopsy proved Silkwood was contaminated with plutonium at her death. To prove that the contamination was sustained at the plant, evidence was given by a series of witnesses who were former employees of the facility.

Are Meryl Streep and Cher friends?

“Meryl just came up, threw her arms around me and said, ‘I’m so glad you’re here,’” Cher remembers. “She’s all communication and warmth and friendship, with a great sense of humor.” Those qualities, which both women share, became the building blocks of a sweet friendship that has endured for nearly four decades.

What happened to Karen Silkwood’s boyfriend?

DREW STEPHENS, 45, the former boyfriend of Karen Silkwood, died Wednesday at El Reno, Okla., in a plane crash. He was killed while practicing aerobatic loops in preparation for an upcoming competition.

Did Karen Silkwood have kids?

Kristi Riddles
Michael MeadowsDawn Meadows
Karen Silkwood/Children

What were some of the safety violations that Silkwood reported finding at the Kerr-McGee factory?

Leaking pipes and defective equipment regularly contaminated workers with plutonium, a deadly radioactive substance that can cause cancer. Instead of stopping production, Kerr-McGee ordered its employees to continue working and did not repair the leaks until slack production periods.

Who is Meryl streeps husband?

Don Gummerm. 1978
Meryl Streep/Husband