Pick of the Week
Bill Nighy's Ill-Advised
Bill Nighy serves as the unexpected advisor you never knew you needed as he responds to queries from the audience in his new show. It’s a laconic delight to listen to his relaxed advice on subjects including applying lipstick to decluttering a record collection. Wisdom is being dispensed – despite his self-deprecating protestations.
Accessible on many platforms, new episodes each week
Initial Judgment
Limerick native Ruth Negga narrates this audio series about a couple convicted of performing FGM on their young daughter. They were later cleared but there are continuing legal actions associated with the matter. This sensitive investigation reveals extensive, tragic failings by the authorities.
Easily accessible, weekly installments
Fela Kuti: Fear No Man
You can't help but be impressed by the line-up of people paying homage one of the greatest African musicians ever in this series about his impact. Ayo Edebiri, Barack Obama, Paul McCartney, Jay-Z, Flea … the highly passionate accolades mount up. Then, you're taken aback by a gripping narrative about his rhythm pianist’s father being killed due to his convictions – and how Kuti courageously supported his family. It’s a fascinating, passionate biography.
Available on many services, episodes release weekly
Familiar Evil
Think Cyndi Lauper, 80s fashion and, well … Satan! This audio show presented by Sarah Marshall skillfully balances between fun and historical account, as it looks at the satanic scare shaped the 80s zeitgeist. Marshall explores the people and artefacts that helped it to snowball in that era and after, among them a disputed autobiography.
Broadly available, weekly episodes
Paradise Turned Nightmare
A young, rich American couple relocate to Costa Rica to establish a wildlife sanctuary and their ideal house. “One of them will end up dead and the other tried for murder – three times,” says reporter Becky Milligan, opening a gobsmacking series about the true events of what befell Jon and Ann Bender in 2010 after they’d set out to make a paradise.
Available widely, with weekly updates