‘The Volunteer’ to Tell the Story of an Auschwitz Spy

Witold Pilecki is not a household name, but his heroic actions during World War II have made him the subject of author Jack Fairweather’s biography “The Volunteer,” which will be made into a movie by House Productions. A Polish Army cavalry captain turned intelligence officer, Pilecki volunteered to be sent to Auschwitz in order to gather intelligence for the Polish Resistance and the Allies. Escaping in 1943 after two-and-a-half years, he fought in the Warsaw Uprising in 1944. After the war and the Communist takeover of Poland, he remained loyal to the government-in-exile and was executed for espionage in 1948.

Fairweather’s biography, based on the firsthand accounts from survivors, archival documents and unpublished diaries, is the recipient of the Costa Book of the Year Prize. “Jack’s book is an astonishing account of a vital story that demands to be told,” House Productions co-CEO Tessa Ross told Deadline. “Witold Pilecki’s heroism was remarkable and it is a great honor to be entrusted with this book so we can share his story.”

Added Fairweather, “I’m delighted that Witold Pilecki’s inspirational story of defiance in the face of man’s greatest evil has found a filmmaker of Tessa’s power and vision. In her hands, this once unsung hero will reach the audience he deserves.”