Netflix’s 'Lead Children' Cast: Meet Who’s Who in Streamer’s Latest True Story Horror

Published 02/18/2026, 11:46 AM EST

Recently released medical drama Lead Children exposed a chilling historical cover-up that nearly silenced an entire generation. Set against the backdrop of a massive steelworks, the plot centers on Dr. Jolanta Wadowska-Król as she identifies a mysterious surge in lead poisoning among local youth. Despite facing intense opposition from government officials, she risks her career and safety to provide medical treatment to the vulnerable. 

But who are the primary actors that brought this harrowing medical investigation to life?

A look at the cast of Lead Children

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These central performers of Lead Children portray the critical figures who lead the fight against the spreading industrial epidemic.

Joanna Kulig, as Dr. Jolanta Wadowska-Król: She appears in all 6 episodes of the 2026 series as the lead and is widely recognized for her previous award-winning roles in Cold War and The Eddy.

Agata Kulesza: Featured across 6 episodes, she is a powerhouse of Polish cinema known for her haunting performances in the Oscar-winning film Ida and S------ Room.

Michał Żurawski: Bringing intensity to all 6 episodes, he previously gained international attention for his work in the series The King of Warsaw and Raven.

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A talented group of veteran performers provides the essential depth needed for this complex historical drama.

The supporting pillars of the Lead Children

The secondary cast members represent the various facets of a society struggling under the weight of state secrets.

Zbigniew Zamachowski: Playing a key role in all 6 episodes, he is a legendary actor famous for his work in the Three Colors: White and the Harry Potter Polish dubbing.

Sebastian Pawlak: Appearing throughout the 6-episode run, his previous credits include notable performances in The Wedding and several acclaimed theatrical productions in Poland.

Kinga Preis: This versatile actress features in 6 episodes and is well-known for her previous roles in In Darkness and the popular series Ojciec Mateusz.

Marian Dziędziel: Starring in 6 episodes, he is a veteran of the screen best known for his powerful turns in The Wedding and The Dark House.

Michał Buksa as Fotograf w spodku: He joins the production for 3 episodes in 2026, building on his growing reputation within the Polish television.

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While the homes near the smelter were eventually demolished and their families relocated, Lead Children actively preserves the memory of the mother of the Szopienice children, Dr. Jolanta Wadowska‑Król.

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What do you think about the cast of Lead Children? Let us know in the comments.

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Soma Mitra

955 articles

Soma is a journalist at Netflix Junkie. With a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication, she brings production experience from documentary films like Chandua: Stories on Fabric. Covering the true crime and docu-drama beat, she turns psychological thrillers into sharp, audience-aware storytelling.

Edited By: Itti Mahajan

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