A new true-crime podcast about the theft of iconic Austrian empress Sisi’s diamond in the 1990s is set to launch on Curiouscast later this month.
Written by Emma Jane Kirby and hosted by Seren Jones, “A Most Audacious Heist” will introduce listeners to Daniel Blanchard, who in 1998 stole the Star of Empress Sisi, a hair ornament made of diamonds and pearls that had once belonged to the nineteenth century European noble. The theft, from Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, sparked off an international manhunt.
The podcast, created in partnership with longform audio prodco Blanchard House (no relation to Daniel), will launch on Jan. 28 with new episodes available weekly. It marks the second project as part of Blanchard House’s multi-deal with Curiouscast following 2023’s “Black and Blue: Behind the Badge,” about the experience of Black law enforcement officers in the U.S.
“‘A Most Audacious Heist’ is a story that had us hooked from our first pitch meeting – its compelling storytelling and high-stakes drama makes for a great audio experience,” said said Curiouscast’s director of streaming and podcasting, Chris ‘Dunner’ Duncombe. “It’s the perfect fit for our network.”
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Blanchard House’s co-founder and creative director Rosie Pye said: “This tale has everything: a daring heist, and a pacy adventure story, wrapped up in a historical drama rich with excess and intrigue. A rare story that is just as captivating in audio as it will one day be on screen, and a pleasure to tell with Curiouscast.”