Marie Curie

Dead Funny History: Marie Curie.

Join historian Greg Jenner for a fast-paced, funny and fascinating journey through the life of Marie Curie; scientific legend, double Nobel Prize winner, war hero, and all-round icon.

This episode of Dead Funny History is packed with jokes, sketches and sound effects that bring Marie’s story to life for families and Key Stage 2 learners. From her rebellious education at the Flying University to her groundbreaking discoveries in radiation, Marie’s life was anything but ordinary.

Learn how she defied the odds to study science in Paris, fell in love with fellow scientist Pierre Curie, and discovered two brand new elements: Polonium and Radium.

Discover how she coined the term “radioactive,” worked in a leaky shed, and became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize… then won another one.

But it wasn’t all lab coats and accolades. Marie faced sexism, heartbreak, and serious health risks from her research. After Pierre’s tragic death, she carried on their work, founded the Radium Institute, and developed mobile X-ray units, Petite Curies, to help soldiers in World War One. Her legacy lives on in cancer treatment, scientific innovation, and the radioactive glow of her still-dangerous notebook.

Expect musical parodies, sketch comedy, and a quiz to test what you’ve learned. It’s history with heart, humour and high production value. Perfect for curious kids, families, and fans of You’re Dead To Me.

Written by Gabby Hutchinson Crouch, Athena Kugblenu and Dr Emma Nagouse

Host: Greg Jenner

Performers: Mali Ann Rees and John-Luke Roberts

Producer: Dr Emma Nagouse

Associate Producer: Gabby Hutchinson Crouch

Audio Producer: Emma Weatherill

Script Consultant: Professor Iwan Morus

Production Coordinator: Liz Tuohy

Production Manager: Jo Kyle

Sound Designer: Peregrine Andrews

A BBC Studios Production