iHP and Thoroughbred Debut First Audio Series ''BUZZ''

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 29, 2025

''BUZZ''

iHeartPodcasts, in partnership with Thoroughbred Studios, has announced the launch of BUZZ, a scripted audio series starring actor John Lithgow as the voice of legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin. The 11-episode podcast debuts May 6 and marks the first release from a four-series co-production agreement between the two companies.

Written by Stephen Kronish (24) and directed by John Scott Dryden, BUZZ is described as a gripping human drama that explores Aldrin's personal struggles and triumphs following the iconic Apollo 11 mission. Lithgow voices Aldrin in his later years, while Geoffrey Arend portrays the astronaut during his NASA days.

"John Lithgow gives an extraordinary performance, taking us into the mind of Apollo 11's most enigmatic character, Buzz Aldrin, who came back to earth to face an even greater challenge than going to the moon," said Dryden. "A story few of us know, BUZZ is an immersive space drama in audio that puts the listener at the heart of the action."

According to iHeartPodcasts, the series will dive deep into Aldrin's life, highlighting his battles with addiction, inherited trauma, and fractured relationships, while also celebrating his historic accomplishments. "BUZZ pays homage to the original trailblazers who risked their lives to go to the Moon," said Jeff Bewkes, Chairman of Thoroughbred Studios. "This is a perfect start to our partnership with iHeart."

The show, which promises to "pierce the layers of a saga that's been shrouded in myth for over 50 years," is part of a two-year development deal between iHeartPodcasts and Thoroughbred Studios. That partnership, announced in 2024, will produce at least four narrative podcasts focused on major moments in American history.

"BUZZ marks an exciting step forward in our partnership with Thoroughbred Studios to reimagine monumental moments in American history through top-tier talent and exceptional production," said Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts. "As we grow our slate of narrative audio series, we hope to give listeners powerful new ways to connect with history in an immersive and engaging format."

BUZZ is a co-production of Thoroughbred Studios, Goldhawk Productions, and iHeartPodcasts. It will be distributed by iHeartPodcasts and available on the iHeartRadio app and all major podcast platforms, with new episodes releasing weekly on Tuesdays beginning May 6.