t’s the scandal that has shocked Americans and rocked the Trump administration. A legal and political saga that has shattered fundamental beliefs that all are equal in the eyes of the law.
When society rich lister and sexual predator Jeffrey Epstein was found dead in his jail cell in 2019, the long-running conspiracy theories exploded. Was he murdered? Did he blackmail his powerful friends? Who in his elite circle was involved in his crimes? And ultimately, how did Epstein evade justice for so long?
Most Americans believe the answers lie in the Epstein Files, a closely guarded record of the investigations into one of the most disturbing criminal cases of modern times.
In this debut feature from the ABC’s newly-established News documentary unit, Walkley Award-winning reporter Grace Tobin is on the ground, talking to those closest to the story as the files are released - including rebel Republican politicians Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene; Epstein’s brother Mark who believes Epstein was murdered; Julie K. Brown, the journalist whose investigation helped put Epstein behind bars; and the survivors whose campaigning forced the hand of a President.
“Featuring a stellar cast of interviewees, Diabolical explains how the life and crimes of Jeffrey Epstein united a divided America in a grassroots uprising against powerful elites. And examines which conspiracy theories might actually be true.” - Executive Producer, Caitlin Shea
“Diabolical represents exactly why we created this unit: comprehensive, meticulous journalism that puts facts first and gives audiences clarity in the midst of complexity. I couldn’t be prouder of this debut and the signal it sends about our commitment to truth-driven storytelling, and the ABC's focus on covering issues of global relevance.” - ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks
“This investigation exemplifies the power of rigorous journalism. Caitlin and her team have approached this story with precision, depth, and integrity. It not only informs but sparks important conversations, and it’s just the beginning of the compelling work we have in store.” - ABC Director, News Justin Stevens
