A new New Zealand comedy series, Small Town Scandal, is currently filming in Wellington. Based on comedian Tom Sainsbury’s podcast, the eight-part show follows a disgraced journalist investigating his millionaire uncle’s peculiar death by lawnmower. It will screen in late 2025.
Here’s the Lowdown: Small Town Scandal stars Sainsbury as Toby, a true-crime podcast host who returns to his eccentric hometown to uncover the truth behind his uncle’s suspicious demise. The cast also includes Morgana O’Reilly (The White Lotus, Friends Like Her) and Alexander England (Offspring, How To Please A Woman). The show blends true-crime investigation with the unique humor of small-town New Zealand life.
What This Means Now: This represents a significant new project for Sky New Zealand Originals, featuring local talent and a comedic take on the popular true-crime genre. Sainsbury’s involvement, both as creator and star, builds on his existing fanbase from his podcast and other comedic work.
The Bigger Picture: The series reunites the producing team behind successful New Zealand films Red, White and Brass and The Breaker Upperers, Georgina Conder and Carthew Neal. It’s commissioned by Sky New Zealand Originals and supported by New Zealand On Air, demonstrating a commitment to local content. Small Town Scandal is slated to air on Sky Open, Sky Go, and Neon in late 2025.
