Al Jazeera Digital is set to launch the first true crime video podcast called “True Crime Reports,” hosted by journalist Halla Mohieddeen. The show aims to bring underreported crime stories from the Global South and beyond to a wider audience. By incorporating AI-generated visuals, motion graphics, and interviews with those involved in the cases, the podcast offers a unique and immersive experience for viewers and listeners.
Halla Mohieddeen explains that the show’s focus on the Global South is important to showcase the impact of crime on diverse communities worldwide. She highlights the need to move away from the traditional “missing white woman” narrative that tends to dominate true crime media coverage. By providing a fresh perspective on crime reporting, True Crime Reports aims to make a difference in how these stories are told and perceived.
Ney Alvarez, Al Jazeera’s Head of Audio, underscores the show’s innovative approach by blending AI technology with fact-checked storytelling. This pioneering collaboration between Al Jazeera and Message Heard, a podcast production company, sets a new standard for video podcasting. The aim is to bring these true crime stories to life in a way that has never been done before, adding depth and authenticity to the narratives.
Jake Warren, founder and CEO of Message Heard, highlights the importance of showcasing lesser-known true crime stories that go beyond the traditional focus on North America and English-speaking countries. By presenting gripping and human stories from diverse regions such as South Africa and Peru, True Crime Reports offers a fresh perspective on crime reporting. The podcast will feature exclusive archive access and contributions from individuals directly affected by the cases.
True Crime Reports will cover a wide range of cases, from a prison break in South Africa to the murder of a game show contestant in Peru. The podcast will be available on Al Jazeera’s YouTube Podcast tab, major streaming platforms, and Al Jazeera’s digital platforms starting on January 5, 2025. This new show promises to redefine the true crime genre by elevating underreported stories and providing a platform for diverse voices to be heard. With its innovative use of AI technology and compelling storytelling, True Crime Reports is set to captivate audiences around the world.
