Goalhanger, the UK podcast production company behind the hit podcast The Rest Is History, has announced plans to adapt the show for television in collaboration with media, marketing, and investment firm Wheelhouse. The move will expand the reach of the twice-weekly podcast, which has become a global phenomenon since its launch in 2020, amassing over 600 episodes covering topics such as the French Revolution and the rise of the Nazis.
Hosts Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook (pictured), celebrated for their engaging storytelling and accessible approach to history, are enthusiastic about bringing the show to a new medium. “We couldn’t be more excited at the thought of bringing The Rest Is History to TV — who wouldn’t want to see Julius Caesar’s toga or Winston Churchill’s cigar in glorious 4K?” they said.
The adaptation will draw on the same formula that has made the podcast a hit, offering entertaining and intelligent storytelling designed to make history accessible. Holland and Sandbrook added: “This partnership with Wheelhouse will allow us to make history unforgettable for a whole new audience, showcasing all the best elements that make our podcast so enjoyable.”
The project is a testament to the growing trend of digital-first content crossing over into traditional formats, leveraging the podcast’s popularity to expand its audience. The show has already inspired best-selling books and sold-out live tours in the UK, the US, and Australia, further solidifying its brand value.
Brent Montgomery, CEO of Wheelhouse, described the collaboration as a perfect fit for the company’s strategy of bridging the gap between digital creators and legacy media. “The Rest Is History is a unicorn,” he said. “Tom and Dominic’s rapport, expertise, and ability to make history engaging have built a brand that resonates globally.”
Goalhanger co-founder Tony Pastor emphasised the demand for high-quality, long-form content among younger audiences. “The global success of The Rest Is History proves there’s an appetite for entertaining and intelligent storytelling,” he said. “This partnership with Wheelhouse allows us to build on the brand’s momentum and connect with new audiences who love history.”
This development highlights the increasing potential for digital-first brands to expand their reach and monetise their intellectual property through television adaptations. With its extensive library of content and established fanbase, The Rest Is History is well-positioned to bridge the divide between digital-first and traditional media, offering brands a blueprint for multi-platform growth.
The television adaptation will aim to retain the podcast’s distinctive mix of humour, insight, and compelling storytelling while adding the visual dimension that only TV can provide. By bringing historical figures and events to life on screen, the show has the potential to attract both loyal listeners and a broader audience of history enthusiasts.
Goalhanger and Wheelhouse’s collaboration reflects the growing demand for innovative, cross-platform projects that redefine audience engagement in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
