An iconic TV show is getting a new life, in podcast form. | Story

The television series “Law & Order” has become legendary among viewers not only for its long run, but also for its ability to take stories from the headlines and recreate them in a fictional setting.

Now, producers Wolf Entertainment and Universal Television are teaming up with iHeartPodcasts to tap into podcast listeners’ passion for true crime. They’re launching an unscripted true crime podcast called Law and Order: Criminal Justice System that takes the “Law & Order” brand deeper into audio and marks its first foray into investigative journalism.

“We’re thrilled to join forces with iHeartPodcasts and UTV to bring to life the real stories that shaped our criminal justice system, the foundation of the ‘Law & Order’ brand,” executive producer Elliot Wolf said in the joint announcement. “The goal was always to push the boundaries of audio storytelling. This series delivers on that while still being highly informative and entertaining.”

Hosted by former Brooklyn homicide officer Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi, the first season of Law & Order: Criminal Justice System delves into the storied world of the American Mafia in New York and chronicles the real-life downfall of the most notorious criminal organization in history.

Set against the turbulent backdrop of 1979, the series reveals how an unlikely team of young local police officers and prosecutors worked tirelessly to beat the odds and dismantle the Mafia’s iron grip on the city. Each episode peels back the layers of events that led to a victory for the justice system, with listeners hearing firsthand accounts of the investigations, surveillance, legal battles and personal sacrifices made by those on the front lines.

More seasons are coming. The deal between Wolf Entertainment, UTV and iHeart is for the development of four seasons of 12 episodes.

“Through this partnership, listeners will instantly recognize the ‘Law & Order’ brand affiliation and know they will be immersed in the dramatic and exciting stories they’ve come to love and expect from the ‘Law & Order’ franchise — now through Elliot Wolf’s unique vision and fresh perspective,” said Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts, in a press release. “Listeners’ interest in true crime continues to grow with new stories constantly being sought out across platforms. ‘Law & Order’ is a legendary series and it’s an honor to partner with UTV, Wolf Entertainment and Elliot to develop this original series of podcasts.”

Law & Order: Criminal Justice System premieres August 22 on the iHeartRadio app and wherever podcasts are available.

This is the first audio project for Wolf Entertainment. Executive producer Elliot Wolf has produced successful podcasts such as Dark forests And Hunted. He also serves as Executive VP of Digital for Wolf Entertainment, where he leads the company’s digital initiatives including podcasting, social media, e-commerce and licensing. He previously served as Executive Producer The Squadroom for the “Law & Order” brand in audio, the popular companion podcast to “Law & Order: SVU.”