From Norwegian fjords to unsolved mysteries

A quiet, peaceful evening along the Norwegian fjords is suddenly interrupted by the rustling in the reeds. This marks the beginning of a mystery that both fascinates and unsettles the entire nation. The true-crime podcast AVHØRT disrupts the pristine calm of the Norwegian landscape by delving into the country's most controversial cases. Since its debut in 2019, the weekly podcast created by Stein Morten Lier, Helge Moldver, and Lars Christian Nygaardstrand from Batong Media AS in cooperation with Bauer Media, has shed light on unsolved cases like 'The woman in the reeds' and the scandal-ridden Eirik Jensen affair. With over 250 episodes, AVHØRT reveals the complexities of Norwegian legal cases on platforms like Podme, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

Drama and ethics: AVHØRT's controversial approach

AVHØRT succeeds in captivating listeners with a narrative where facts and dramatic storytelling go hand in hand. The series dives into unpredictable narratives with in-depth research but also faces criticism for its ethical choices. An example is the intense Jensen case, where prosecutors described the coverage as 'one-sided and sensationalist.' The podcast's recipe for success includes exclusive interviews, analysis of court documents, and dramatic reconstructions, creating an immersive experience. At the same time, it risks compromising reliability. Here, the podcast exposes the institutional machinery where race, power, and morality clash, often featuring revelations that challenge the status quo and spark deep societal debates.

Shadows of the legal system and technological tactics

In a genre filled with uniform productions, AVHØRT manages to stand out with its sharp treatment of the legal system's dark sides. It contributes to important discussions about legal security and employs innovative technologies, such as AI voice synthesis for recreating phone calls, positioning it as a central player in both Norwegian and international true crime. The podcast's popularity, with over 1.3 million listeners each month, and its academic recognition, including a SKUP award for best investigative podcast journalism, highlight its significance. When society is scrutinized and justice is unveiled as fragile, AVHØRT shows us that the truth is often the most riveting story, and many listen with great anticipation.

Listen to the first episode at podme.com – and follow KrimiNyt for more in-depth and revealing true-crime analyses.