Award-Winning Podcast 'Wisecrack' Adapts to TV Screen

Universal Studio Group's UCP has secured the rights to adapt the critically acclaimed podcast, 'Wisecrack,' into a new scripted television series. The studio emerged victorious in a competitive bidding process for the rights to the podcast, which was honored as Podcast of the Year at the Ambie Awards.

Eli Jorne, known for his work on 'Severance' and 'The Walking Dead: Dead City,' is set to adapt the podcast for television and will also serve as an executive producer. The 'Wisecrack' podcast recounts the chilling true story of comedian Edd Hedges. Hedges' return to his hometown for a charity performance took a dark turn when a murderer began claiming lives shortly after his set.

The narrative details how the ordeal became intensely personal for Hedges as the killer's actions encroached upon his life. The investigation spanned his English village, leading to courtroom and prison proceedings, before ultimately circling back to the stage where his story began. The podcast's success is further underscored by its multiple Ambie Award wins, including Best Society and Culture Podcast, Best Production and Sound Design, and Best Nonfiction Scriptwriting.

Edd Hedges and producer Jodi Tovay are currently engaged in a live tour featuring the podcast, with upcoming stops in Nashville, Atlanta, and Austin. Several production companies, including Eat the Cat, Tenderfoot TV, iHeartMedia, and Starwipe Productions, are involved as executive producers for the television adaptation.