Netflix has commissioned a series adaptation of the New York Times and Serial Productions podcast, “The Retrievals,” announced during its upfront presentation in New York City on Wednesday.
Creative Team and Showrunner
The adaptation is helmed by Molly Smith Metzler, who will serve as writer, executive producer, and showrunner. Metzler is known for her successful collaborations with Netflix, including her work on “Maid” and “Sirens.”
“Maid,” inspired by Stephanie Land’s memoir, debuted on Netflix in 2021, starring Margaret Qualley. It received three Emmy nominations that year, including best actress in a limited series for Qualley, and was in Netflix's global top 10 English language TV chart for 14 weeks.
“Sirens,” based on Metzler’s 2011 play “Elemeno Pea,” aired in 2025. Starring Meghann Fahy, Milly Alcock, Julianne Moore, and Kevin Bacon, the series earned four Emmy nominations and appeared in the global top 10 for eight consecutive weeks.
Plot and Executive Producers
The series will follow a woman’s battle against Yale Fertility Center after she and others were operated on without anesthesia due to a nurse stealing their fentanyl. The official description highlights a blend of powerful and unexpectedly humorous storytelling about a community challenging a major institution.
Alongside Metzler, the executive producers include Colin McKenna, LuckyChap, Caitlin Roper from the New York Times, and Susan Burton, who hosted the original podcast.
Impact and Expectations
Metzler’s involvement promises a compelling adaptation, given her track record with Netflix. Her previous series have not only garnered critical acclaim and multiple Emmy nominations but also achieved significant viewership worldwide.
As Netflix expands its original content offerings, adaptations of popular podcasts like “The Retrievals” demonstrate the streaming giant's strategy to tap into existing fanbases and compelling real-world stories. The collaboration with established producers and creators hints at a promising addition to Netflix’s lineup of thought-provoking series.
The series adaptation of “The Retrievals” intends to bring to screen a story that combines elements of drama, humor, and social commentary, resonating with audiences familiar with the podcast and attracting new viewers alike.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/the-retrievals-netflix-series-yale-fertility-center-podcast-1236746949/
