Netflix's Joy release date and cast as movie tells the true story of the first 'test-tube baby'

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The forthcoming Netflix release, 'Joy,' is set to tug on viewers' heartstrings as it tells the poignant tale of three pioneers in health and science who labour to grant infertile mothers the miracle of a child. Set in the transformative era of the 60s and 70s, audiences will witness major actors bring to life the true champions of the story.

The dramatic real-life account unfolds with the historic arrival of Louise Joy Brown in 1978 the world's first ever baby conceived through in vitro fertilisation (IVF). Centred around the decade-long extraordinary efforts of three relentless experts, the film draws back the curtain on their triumphant breakthrough in addressing infertility.

Zooming in on Jean Purdy, a nurse and embryologist, the narrative follows her trailblazing collaboration with scientist Robert Edwards and surgeon Patrick Steptoe. The official synopsis elaborates: "Joy celebrates the power of perseverance and the wonders of science."

"Spanning a tumultuous ten years filled with dizzying triumphs and setbacks, we track the audacious trio of visionary misfits. Undeterred by formidable obstacles and naysayers, they press on to fulfil their ambition, paving the way for countless individuals to cherish similar dreams."

Here's what you need to know about the film's broadcast schedule on Netflix.

When is 'Joy' on Netflix?

Premiering initially in a limited number of UK and Ireland cinemas beginning November 15, 'Joy' makes its worldwide debut on Netflix on November 22.

For US audiences eagerly anticipating its release, titles typically land right at midnight. UK viewers usually have access from 8am local time on the specified launch date.

The script for the film was penned by Jack Thorne, who developed the story alongside his wife Rachel Mason. The couple revealed that their personal journey through IVF to conceive their son heavily influenced the project.

In an interview with The Guardian, Thorne shared: "It took Rachel [a comedy agent] and me seven rounds of IVF to have Elliott. What started as a journey where we told everyone, and almost celebrated doing it, became a brutal and dark time."

"Two years after we had him, Rach told me she'd been ready to leave me had IVF not worked for us. She wanted me to have a child and decided I wanted and needed children more than I wanted and needed her. This wasn't true. But it was what she was thinking."

Who are the stars of Joy?

Bill Nighy takes on the role of Patrick Steptoe, an obstetrician and gynaecologist who played a crucial role in the development of IVF.

Nighy, a multi-award-winning actor, was most recently seen in The First Omen and The Beautiful Game.

The 74-year-old was previously in a relationship with English actress Diana Quick, with whom he has a daughter, Mary, who also pursued a career in acting.

They separated in 2008.

Thomasin McKenzie portrays Jean Purdy, a British nurse, embryologist and pioneer of fertility treatment.

The 24-year-old New Zealand actress is recognised for her roles in Jojo Rabbit and Eileen.

She is the daughter of actress Miranda Harcourt.

James Norton plays Robert Edwards, a physiologist and pioneer in reproductive medicine.

Norton, a 39-year-old actor, is known for his roles in Happy Valley and Grantchester.

Between 2015 and 2017, he was romantically involved with actress Jessie Buckley, followed by a relationship with actress Imogen Poots from 2018 until their split before Christmas 2023.

Joanna Scanlan, known for her roles in The Thick of It, Gentleman Jack and Notes on a Scandal, portrays Gladys May in the film.

The character Muriel is played by theatre actress Tanya Moodie, who has starred in Silo and Empire of Light, and also made an appearance in the second season of The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power.

Rish Shah, recently seen in Netflix's Obsession and Amazon Prime's Sitting in Bars with Cake, takes on the role of Arun.

The cast also includes Call the Midwife actress Ella Bruccoleri and Happy Valley star Charlie Murphy.

Joy will be available to stream on Netflix from November 22.

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