Netflix‘s new film, *Joy*, delves deep into the transformative true narrative surrounding the groundbreaking development of IVF, which was revolutionized by the collaborative efforts of visionary scientists Jean Purdy, Robert Edwards, and Patrick Steptoe.
The film takes viewers on an emotional journey through the groundbreaking efforts of the embryologists who laid the foundation for fertility treatments in the 1970s, specifically bringing attention to the pivotal role of Purdy, whose invaluable contributions have often been overshadowed in history. James Norton takes on the role of Edwards, joined by Thomasin McKenzie, who embodies Purdy, and the acclaimed Bill Nighy in the role of Steptoe.
Here is everything that you need to know about *Joy* and the poignant reality that inspired it.
What is the true story behind Netflix movie *Joy*?
*Joy* illuminates the essential contributions that Jean Purdy made to the creation of IVF, showcasing her as a crucial figure in this medical revolution. (Netflix)
*Joy* thoroughly explores the remarkable collaboration between British nurse Purdy, scientist Edwards, and obstetrician Steptoe in pioneering in vitro fertilisation (IVF) — an innovative process that enables couples grappling with fertility challenges to conceive a child.
Steptoe embarked on his path to advance fertility treatment in 1969 at the Centre for Human Production located in Oldham, Greater Manchester. During this time, he worked with courageous infertile women who bravely volunteered their ova for his research, motivated by the hope of achieving pregnancy through his expertise.
Purdy swiftly emerged as an indispensable member of the team after joining Steptoe and Edwards as a laboratory technician. The challenge of securing funding during this morally contentious era meant that Steptoe and Edwards had to juggle full-time jobs while conducting their groundbreaking research in their spare time to sustain their efforts.
This left Purdy with the formidable task of managing the laboratory, cultivating research cultures, meticulously recording data, and providing critical support to the hopeful parents. The significance of her contributions cannot be overstated; when Purdy needed to step back to care for her ill mother, the progress on IVF came to a standstill.
The first “test tube baby” was Louise Joy Brown, who entered the world on 25 July 1978. Purdy was the first individual to witness the miraculous moment when the fertilised egg, later to become Brown, divided into new cells.
During her tenure with Steptoe and Edwards, an impressive total of 370 IVF children were conceived, marking a significant milestone in reproductive medicine.
However, despite the monumental impact of Purdy’s work on the advancement of IVF, her contributions failed to receive acknowledgment commensurate with her male colleagues. A glaring example of this oversight occurred in 2013 when a commemorative plaque honoring IVF pioneers notably omitted Purdy’s name, despite Edwards’ vocal objections.
Edwards fought diligently to ensure that Purdy received the recognition she rightfully deserved, famously stating at an event honoring the 20th anniversary of IVF’s inception: “There were three original pioneers in IVF and not just two.”
Edwards’s pivotal achievements were acknowledged when he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 2010 for his role in IVF. Tragically, as the award cannot be bestowed posthumously, he became the sole recipient despite the collaborative efforts alongside Steptoe and Purdy.
What happened to IVF pioneer Jean Purdy?
Jean Purdy, celebrated for her invaluable contributions, passed away in March 1985 at the young age of 39 after a battle with malignant melanoma. Pictured with Robert Edwards in 1968, her groundbreaking work did not garner the recognition it deserved during her lifetime. (Getty Images)
In 2018, Purdy’s remarkable contributions were finally honored during a memorial service at Bourn Hall, the world’s first IVF clinic which she helped establish. During the ceremony, Brown highlighted Purdy’s lasting impact, stating, “My mum always talked about Jean and said she was an unsung hero, and without her IVF babies may never have been a reality.”
Brown recounted her fond memories of Purdy, who remained in touch after her birth, expressing plans for an IVF clinic at Bourn Hall. She conveyed the collective respect held by women in Oldham at the time, all of whom benefited from Purdy’s encouragement during challenging moments. Brown expressed her pride in representing her mother while unveiling the new memorial.
*Joy* diligently works to cement Purdy’s legacy as a trailblazer in IVF treatment and restore her rightful place in history. In a conversation with Radio Times, Nighy expressed his hope that the film would accomplish this goal, stating: “If the film restores Jean Purdy to her rightful place in the whole development of IVF, then that’s enough.” He highlighted the ongoing challenge of ensuring women’s contributions are valued equally, saying, “the phenomenon of men dismissing women’s work is bewildering and bizarre.”
*Joy* is currently showing in cinemas and is set to debut on Netflix on Friday, 22 November.
– What were the key contributions of Jean Purdy in the development of IVF, as highlighted in the film *Joy*?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Reproductive Scientist and IVF Expert**
**Editor:** Welcome, Dr. Carter! Thank you for joining us today to discuss *Joy*, Netflix’s new film that highlights the critical contributions of Jean Purdy in the development of IVF. Can you share your thoughts on the film’s focus on Purdy?
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me! I think it’s incredibly important that *Joy* sheds light on Jean Purdy’s role in the IVF revolution. Historically, her contributions have often been overlooked, yet her work was absolutely vital to the success of the IVF team. The film does a wonderful job of humanizing the science and the emotional journey involved.
**Editor:** The film showcases the collaboration between Purdy, Robert Edwards, and Patrick Steptoe. How did their teamwork drive the innovation of IVF in the 1970s?
**Dr. Carter:** Their collaboration was truly groundbreaking. Each brought a unique skill set to the table. Steptoe was a pioneering obstetrician, Edwards was a brilliant scientist, and Purdy, as a laboratory technician, played a crucial role in managing the day-to-day operations. It was a remarkable partnership that faced both scientific and ethical challenges, yet their dedication allowed them to achieve milestones like the birth of Louise Joy Brown, the world’s first “test tube baby.”
**Editor:** It’s striking that despite her significant contributions, Purdy did not receive the same recognition as her male counterparts. What impact do you think that had on the field of reproductive medicine?
**Dr. Carter:** The lack of recognition for women like Purdy has far-reaching implications. It not only affects the awareness of their contributions but also the visibility of women in science in general. When we acknowledge only certain figures, we risk perpetuating a narrative that suggests innovation is a male-dominated field. This omission can discourage young female scientists from pursuing careers in STEM, as they may not see themselves reflected in its history.
**Editor:** Purdy’s support was crucial for the progression of IVF, especially during challenging times. How did her personal sacrifices, such as caring for her ill mother, affect the IVF research?
**Dr. Carter:** That’s such a poignant part of her story. When Purdy needed to take a step back to care for her mother, the research indeed suffered. It underscores how closely intertwined personal and professional lives can be, especially in a highly demanding field like reproductive science. It also highlights the need for a supportive environment that recognizes the holistic needs of scientists, particularly women who often juggle multiple responsibilities.
**Editor:** With the spotlight now on Purdy thanks to *Joy*, what do you hope will change in terms of recognition and support for women in the scientific community?
**Dr. Carter:** I hope that this film will spark conversations about gender equity in science, particularly in fields like reproductive medicine. We need to ensure that contributions from all team members, regardless of gender, are recognized and celebrated. Moreover, we should work toward creating environments that support diverse voices and experiences in science and innovation—ensuring that history reflects the true scope of contributors.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for providing such insightful perspectives on *Joy* and the legacy of Jean Purdy. It’s a vital reminder of the importance of celebrating all pioneers in science.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you again for having me! I’m excited to see how this film can inspire a wider dialogue about the contributions of women in medicine.
**Editor:** And there you have it – a compelling discussion about *Joy* and the remarkable story of Jean Purdy. We look forward to seeing how this film influences public perception and awareness surrounding IVF and its pioneers.
