Fire is at the center of Smoke, Apple TV+ 's searing new crime drama, but the blaze that matters most is internal. Created by bestselling author and screenwriter Dennis Lehane ( Black Bird, Mystic River ), the show sets an arson investigator, a troubled detective and two elusive firebugs on a collision course with their pasts—and themselves.

Author and screenwriter Dennis Lehane has a healthy respect for the power of fire. He learned that the hard way — surviving a house fire in Boston in his 30s. Lehane was living on the top floor of an apartment building when a propane tank on the roof exploded and started a blaze.

Yes! Smoke on Apple TV+ is inspired by a true story, specifically the one told through truth.media’s acclaimed Firebug podcast, hosted by Oscar and Emmy winner Kary Antholis, who not only served as an executive producer on Black Bird, but is also an EP on Smoke for Crime Story Media, LLC. and credited with writing Episode 4 of the series.