Smithsonian Channel & Warehouse 51 Pact for Murderous History

U.K.-based Warehouse 51 Productions and Smithsonian Channel in the U.S. have partnered on the new crime series Murderous History.

The investigative series looks at history through the lens of crime, following a chronicle of human stories that explore the social history of a place, the era and the people who lived there. The co-production also includes Canal+ (France) and Viasat World (CEE, Russia, CIS, Baltics, Nordics).

The first episode of Murderous History is “Chicago’s White City Devil,” which follows the infamous story of property developer H.H. Holmes, who takes advantage of the economic boom to build his own hotel in the city—which later became known as “murder hotel.” The series also delves into a grisly murder during London’s Blitz, the story of Edinburgh’s Body Snatchers, Berlin’s Nazi Ripper and Rio’s Playboy Killers.

Carl Hall, managing director of Warehouse 51, said: “I am delighted to announce that we have concluded an agreement for Murderous History with The Smithsonian Channel. Along with our other co-production partners, Canal + and Viasat, Smithsonian Channel have been extremely supportive in creating this new genre, which bridges the gap between true crime and history, viewing it through a contemporary lens—which appeals to a wide-ranging audience. We believe this is a compelling proposition for broadcasters and we look forward to the continuing success of the series as we expand the Murderous History franchise around the globe.”

John Cavanagh, executive producer for Smithsonian Channel, said: “We are always looking to chronicle the past in an entertaining, current way. The atmospheric mix of period drama, authentic local voices and mystery, really makes this a fresh take on true crime. In a time when we are examining our world systematically, Murderous History’s look at how notorious crimes are both products and reflections of their times feels vital.”