GANDHINAGAR: The Richland siblings, Eleonore (voiced by the ever-reliable Gillian Jacobs) and Michael (played by the versatile Josh Gad), find themselves adrift in a sea of grief after the untimely demise of their parents in a plane crash. Yet, amidst the mourning, a disquieting truth emerges – their father, a revered surgeon lionized for his medical prowess, harbored a darkness that threatens to tarnish his legacy.
This is the gripping premise of “Blood Ties,” a fictional podcast from Wondery, the network that brought us chilling narratives like “The Shrink Next Door” and “Dr. Death.” Here, the genre bends towards a more personal exploration, inviting listeners into the intimate world of Eleonore as she grapples with the complexities of her father’s past.
The narrative unfolds through a tapestry of audio recordings – snippets of interviews with those who knew the enigmatic doctor, alongside Eleonore’s own reactions as she uncovers these unsettling truths. It’s akin to eavesdropping on a true-crime investigation, only this time, the listener occupies the privileged position of being alongside the family members confronting the perpetrator’s secrets.
The podcast thrives in the intimacy of the audio format. Each revelation lands with a heavier impact as we experience it alongside Eleonore, her voice betraying a mix of shock, disbelief, and a touch of heartbreak. It’s a testament to Jacobs’ talent that she manages to evoke such a range of emotions solely through vocal delivery.
Adding another layer of intrigue is the show’s connection to Wondery’s established true-crime repertoire. As Jacobs herself points out, “Blood Ties” draws upon the thematic threads explored in the network’s non-fictional hits, weaving them into a compelling work of fiction.
For Jacobs, the transition to audio acting presented a unique challenge. Self-described as averse to the sound of her own voice, she had to overcome this personal hurdle to fully inhabit the role. Thankfully, the in-person recording sessions with her co-stars proved to be a saving grace, fostering a dynamic that translates beautifully into the final product.
“Blood Ties” has resonated with audiences, garnering a coveted 4.5-star rating on Apple Podcasts. The journey alongside Eleonore promises to be a captivating one, filled with unexpected turns and revelations. While a second season remains shrouded in mystery, one can’t help but echo Jacobs’ sentiment – the world of “Blood Ties” begs for further exploration.