Sky News podcast The Wargame is being transformed into a four-part TV series. Set in the near future, it will feature real-life politicians, intelligence chiefs and military figures playing out how Britain could respond to a Russian attack on UK soil.
Among those taking part is Michael Gove, as prime minister, alongside Nicola Sturgeon as his deputy and Dame Penny Mordaunt as defence secretary.
The docu-drama style series, due to be broadcast on Sky and NOW this September, will show how rolling news bulletins, military and intelligence reports, and unexpected interventions combine to throw up surprise dilemmas, forcing the government “Cabinet” to make snap decisions that could affect the entire population.
The series will be produced by ITV Studios’ The Garden, which has been behind programmes such as 24 Hours in Police Custody. The simulation has been developed in conjunction with leading academics, military and defence experts, including Sky News’ security and defence editor Deborah Haynes.
Phil Edgar-Jones, executive director of unscripted originals at Sky’ said: “Sky News’ ground-breaking podcast The Wargame captivated listeners, shedding light on the choices our country’s leaders face under escalating military threat. Now working with the team at The Garden, we’re bringing The Wargame to new audiences in a visceral new TV format, which will challenge some of the most experienced political and military minds in the country to imagine how they might respond under threat of war.”
Nicola Brown, executive producer, The Garden, added: “In a simulated crisis scenario, where actions can have world-changing consequences, The Wargame will put viewers ‘in the room’ to see first-hand how decisions are made at the highest level.”
The move is a strong indicator of the way in which podcasts can act as a development pathway for new IP, by building relatively low cost fan engagement. See The Drop’s interview with Curve Media’s Naomi Channell on this subject.
