10 Years On from the Serial Effect – What True Crime Looks Like Today… and Where It's Going

21 May 2026
The Studio Stage
A decade after Serial launched a global fascination with narrative crime storytelling, true crime remains one of the most consumed and culturally significant podcast genres. This panel brings together voices from across the spectrum to explore how the genre has evolved, what audience expectations look like now, and where true crime storytelling is headed next. Expect conversation on genre saturation, new narrative formats, ethical storytelling, and lessons from case studies that reveal bigger shifts in how listeners engage with real-world stories.
Chairperson
Nikki Druce
Nikki Druce, Presenter - Macabre London & Killers, Cults & Queens
Cheryl The Queen
Cheryl The Queen, Podcast Host - Killers, Cults & Queens
Speakers
Cesil Fernandes
Cesil Fernandes, Executive Producer - CBC Podcasts
Alex Gatenby
Alex Gatenby, Series Producer - Grayhouse Productions
David Waters
David Waters, Senior Producer - Raw