By Jon Donnis
Twelve months ago, Joanne McNally was known primarily for her sharp wit and a penchant for diving into quirky conspiracy theories. Now, the beloved comedian has taken on a new role as an intrepid investigative journalist, determined to uncover the truth behind some of the world's most bizarre and intriguing stories. Her latest assignment? Delving into the strange and secretive world of international espionage, politics, and... Furbys.
Set to be released on BBC Sounds, Joanne McNally Investigates: Did Furbys Spy on Us? is a six-part podcast series that promises to be as entertaining as it is enlightening. The first two episodes will drop on 11 September 2024, with a new episode released each week thereafter.
For those who grew up in the 1990s, Furbys were the must-have toy. These fuzzy, electronic creatures were more than just cute—they could talk, learn, and even appear to listen to their owners. But as the years went on, rumors began to swirl. Were these beloved toys actually sophisticated listening devices? Could they have posed a threat to national security?
Joanne McNally's new podcast sets out to answer these questions, taking listeners on a journey through the rise of the Furby, the technology behind it, and the strange accusations that followed. With her signature humor and newfound journalistic fervor, McNally will leave no stone unturned in her quest for the truth.
"Top up your glass of Pinot and get ready, because I'm back!" Joanne says, brimming with excitement. "I've moved on from Avril Lavigne – there's a bigger mystery in town. This time I'm investigating a story of global espionage, life and death, and cuddly toys! The Furby we all know and love was actually accused of being an international spy. They were barred from airplanes, removed from hospitals, and banned from US classified buildings. Fear not, people, I will leave no stone unturned in my pursuit of justice! This spying scandal goes right to the top, so that's where I'm going."
Throughout the series, McNally will travel far and wide to get to the bottom of the Furby mystery. She'll make a daring call to the US Pentagon, venture to Menwith Hill—the UK's secretive listening station in North Yorkshire—and interview Furby collectors who have some extraordinary stories to tell. From individuals who swear their Furbys possessed unusual abilities to real-life spies who might just hold the key to the truth, Joanne's investigation will take listeners on a thrilling ride.
As the series progresses, Joanne's curiosity will extend beyond the Furby itself. She'll begin to question what other devices in her life might be spying on her—from her smartphone to her smart speaker and even the popular social media platform TikTok. Along the way, she'll uncover remarkable stories of how global surveillance has led to the exposure of infidelity, the uncovering of wrongdoing, and even the solving of a murder.
While the subject matter may be serious, Joanne McNally's podcast is anything but dry. She'll be joined by a stellar cast of comedy friends, including Joe Lycett, Roisin Conaty, and her trusty sidekick Gearóid Farrelly. Their banter and unique perspectives will add a layer of levity to the investigation, making it as funny as it is fascinating.
Joanne McNally Investigates: Did Furbys Spy on Us? is produced by What's The Story Sounds and was commissioned by Louise Kattenhorn, Podcasts Commissioning Executive for BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds. The series promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions, blending comedy with true investigative grit.
Prepare yourself for a podcast unlike any other. Joanne McNally is on the case, and she won't rest until she uncovers the truth about Furbys—and perhaps even the world of surveillance at large.
Tune in starting 11 September 2024 on BBC Sounds.
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