From CPH:DOX in Copenhagen, Scenery, a joint venture with Banijay Benelux, today announces Hushpuppi, a limited documentary series co-produced by AGC Unwritten, the non-scripted unit of AGC Studios (Netflix’s The Tinder Swindler), and African streamer Showmax. The three-parter marks the first partnership for the three companies and chronicles the unbelievable true story of the world’s most famous scammer. With production underway, and release expected in 2026, streamer Showmax has pre-acquired exclusive distribution rights for the African market, with the rest of the world available.
The series follows Hushpuppi’s transformation from humble beginnings in the impoverished neighbourhoods of Lagos, to international playboy flaunting his wealth with celebrities. But the reality was much more sinister. Trading on his notorious story to amass a seven-figure following on Instagram and infamously posing as a business tycoon, the international crime boss bankrolled it all with huge global cons. But that arrogance put him on the FBI’s radar and ultimately landed him in a US prison.
Lea Fels and Isidoor Roebers, Producers at Scenery: “This docu-series is an extraordinary tale about a kid from one of the poorest places in Nigeria that became a sought-after international criminal mastermind with millions of online followers. Bringing extensive experience in creativity and investigative journalism, AGC Unwritten is the ideal partner to bring this gripping story to life, and with Showmax onboard for African audiences, we are excited to showcase this new title to others in the market at CPH: DOX this week.”
Joel Zimmer, President AGC Unwritten: “We’re excited to partner with best-in-class companies like Scenery and Showmax, to bring this compelling and globally relevant story to life. Hushpuppi was adored by millions of followers who bought into his rags-to-riches business success, but his story is a cautionary tale of how easily social media can distort reality and how easily even sophisticated businesses can fall victim to clever cons.”
Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment for Multichoice and Showmax: “With Hushpuppi, Showmax continues to cement its reputation for producing world-class content, born in Africa – and we’re collaborating with other major global players to put our work firmly in the spotlight it deserves”.
Hushpuppi is produced by Scenery’s Lea Fels and Isidoor Roebers, and AGC’s Stuart Ford and Joel Zimmer, and co-produced by Showmax. It has been developed by creative producer Besma Lachhab from Scenery and Joel Zimmer and Matthew Horowitz for AGC, together with directors Sam Soko, an Emmy, Peabody, and PGA Award-nominated filmmaker based in Nairobi, Kenya; and Lauren DeFilippo, a New York-based filmmaker whose documentary Red Heaven was nominated for a SXSW’s Grand Jury Award. CAA’s Media Finance Group was involved in the packaging and financing of this series.