Tag: Autopsy: The Last Hours of

New Series “On Patrol: First Shift” Leads August 2022 Premieres

Posted on by Danielle Langer





New Series “On Patrol: First Shift” Leads August 2022 Premieres Along with Stories About the Legacies of Beloved Music, Movie and TV Stars and the Truth About the Final Days of Princess Diana
“On Patrol: First Shift” premiering Friday, August 12, features what’s in store for the upcoming episode of “On Patrol: Live” and provides a sneak peak of the departments and officers that the cameras will be following that night.
[via press release from Reelz]
NEW SERIES “ON PATROL: FIRST SHIFT” LEADS AUGUST 2022 PREMIERES ALONG WITH STORIES ABOUT THE LEGACIES OF BELOVED MUSIC, MOVIE AND TV STARS AND THE TRUTH ABOUT THE FINAL DAYS OF PRINCESS DIANA

New Series “On Patrol: First Shift” Premieres Friday, August 12, 2022 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT with “On Patrol: Live” Team of Dan Abrams, Sgt. Sean “Sticks” Larkin and Deputy Sheriff Curtis Wilson Providing a Sneak Peek at New Episodes of “On Patrol: Live” and Sharing Memorable Moments From Previous Programs

“On Patrol: Live” New Episodes Every Friday and Saturday Night Starting at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT Featuring Host and Executive Producer Dan Abrams and Sgt. Sean “Sticks” Larkin Alongside Deputy Sheriff Curtis Wilson Providing Viewers with Live Analysis and Context, Offering Unique Insight Into the Experiences of Law Enforcement Appearing on the Show

“Autopsy: The Last Hours of… ” Returns with New Stories About the Bright Careers and Untimely Deaths of Celebrated Music, Movie and TV Stars Buddy Holly, Paul Walker, Chadwick Boseman, Brandon Lee, Johnny Carson and Freddie Prinze

“Diana: The Ultimate Truth” New Original Special Marks the 25th Anniversary of Her Tragic Death with an Investigation Into the Crash Featuring Insight From Those Close to Diana Speaking Out for the First Time

Six Back-to-Back Episodes of The Original ‘Cops’ Documentary Reality Series Make Their REELZ Premieres Every Week in August Showcasing the Real Stories of Law Enforcement in the Line of Duty Across America

(Albuquerque, NM) Wednesday, July 20, 2022 – REELZ today announced its August 2022 premieres led by new original series On Patrol: First Shift premiering Friday, August 12 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT featuring Dan Abrams, former Tulsa Police Department Sgt. Sean “Sticks” Larkin and Deputy Sheriff Curtis Wilson discussing what’s in store for the upcoming episode of On Patrol: Live and providing a sneak peak of the departments and officers that the cameras will be following that night. The hosts also look back at the most memorable moments from past episodes including everything from police pursuits to encounters with unforgettable suspects as well as inspiring acts of heroism and courage under fire. New episodes of On Patrol: First Shift premiere every Friday and Saturday night at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT leading into new episodes of On Patrol: Live at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT every Friday and Saturday night. August 2022 premieres also mark the return of original series Autopsy: The Last Hours of… with new stories celebrating the lives of entertainment legends Buddy Holly, Paul Walker, Chadwick Boseman, Brandon Lee, Johnny Carson and Freddie Prinze while also examining their tragic and untimely deaths. New original special Diana: The Ultimate Truth answers the lingering questions surrounding the tragic car crash that took the life of beloved Princess Diana of Wales with fresh interviews from those close to Diana in her final days who are speaking out for the first time. Every week in August includes six back-to-back episodes of the original hit documentary real life series COPS making their REELZ premieres showcasing the adrenaline filled unscripted action from the front lines of law enforcement across America.

“We’re excited to give viewers more of the action from On Patrol: Live in new series On Patrol: First Shift with the stellar team of Dan Abrams, Sean Larkin and Curtis Wilson highlighting moments from prior shows that left viewers saying ‘I can’t believe that happened’ while getting them ready for a thrilling new episode of the series that shows how policing is done in 2022,” said Steve Cheskin, SVP of Programming at REELZ. “August 2022 premieres also bring the real stories of beloved stars who brightened the world with their incredible talent, memorable characters and spectacular performances whose tragic deaths left fans searching for answers.”

August 2022 premieres begin Friday, August 5 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT with a new live episode of On Patrol: Live with host and executive producer Dan Abrams, Sgt. Sean “Sticks” Larkin and Deputy Sheriff Curtis Wilson live on set providing minute-by-minute live analysis as the series documents for viewers in real time the everyday work of police officers on patrol from diverse departments across America. The recently announced law enforcement agencies participating in On Patrol: Live include Marion County and Volusia County Sheriff’s Offices in Florida; Beech Grove Police Department in Indiana; Nye County Sheriff’s Office in Nevada; Paterson Police Department in New Jersey; Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office in New Mexico; and Richland County Sheriff’s Department and Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina. On Patrol: Live will also engage the community by inviting them into the series. “Citizen Ride-Alongs” will give local residents, within the communities of the departments appearing on the show, a first-hand perspective as they ride along with officers followed by On Patrol: Live cameras on live nights; “Citizens On-Set” invites community members into the studio as guests where they can share their Ride-Along experiences and observations and comment on the night’s live activities. Both features offer a unique opportunity for viewers and members of the community to gain unprecedented access to law enforcement – from routine calls and high-stakes incidents to tracking down fugitives of justice and recovering missing children. On Sunday, August 7 original series Autopsy: The Last Hours of… returns with the real story about one of the most influential rock and roll artists ever in Buddy Holly whose brief life came to a violent end in a tangle of twisted metal at the edge of a frozen Iowa cornfield in the winter of 1959. Holly was just 22 years old but his influence on music is beyond measure. The modest and unassuming young Texan was there at the very start of rock and roll creating a style that influenced Bob Dylan, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones among many others. His official autopsy report states that he died of multiple traumas but questions remain about his state of mind to be on the flight. The conditions before takeoff were minus nine degrees with strong winds and official reports stated the flight was “unwise”. Holly had usually traveled via bus so now Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Buddy Holly” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT examines the circumstances in his life that led him to take the flight in such poor conditions and if there was something in his medical history that could help explain his decision making that day.

Paul Walker was a beloved action movie star blessed with good looks and charisma to match. His real life love for cars led to the role of undercover cop Brian O’Conner in The Fast and the Furious and in a twist of fate his passion for motorsports would play a role in his demise. On November 30, 2013 Walker died when the supercar Porsche in which he was a passenger spun off an LA street. How it happened baffled crash investigators. Walker had spent years in fast cars and the Porsche driver had professional racing experience so what exactly happened on that fateful day? In Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Paul Walker” on Sunday, August 14 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter examines his autopsy report, two extensive crash investigation reports and first-hand accounts from friends present the day of the crash to show what happened and if any health factors contributed to the crash. The O’Conner role led to global stardom for Walker just as Chadwick Boseman’s role as superhero Black Panther T’Challa in the Marvel franchise spawned legions of fans around the world. Before Black Panther Boseman had already built an acting legacy with memorable roles as Jackie Robinson in 42 and James Brown in Get on Up. On Sunday, August 14 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Chadwick Boseman” celebrates his powerful career and examines his tragic and untimely death. Boseman died of colon cancer at just 43 years old but the survival rate at his age is between 72-90% so was there something in his health history that contributed to his shocking passing and did his rigorous work schedule interrupt screenings that could have caught the cancer earlier? Sharing the path of being a young and hard working actor who is also a talented martial artist like Boseman was Brandon Lee. He was rising talent who was establishing a name for himself following in the footsteps of his movie and martial arts legend father Bruce Lee. But a freak accident on a movie set killed Brandon after he was hit in the abdomen by a projectile from a gun that was supposed to be shooting blanks. The bizarre onset accident shocked the world and his death became shrouded in mystery, controversy and conspiracy. On Sunday, August 14 at 11pm ET/ 8pm PT Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Brandon Lee” explores the theories surrounding his death and examines the medical circumstances of his death given that nearly 90% of victims of single gunshot wounds to the abdomen survive.

Johnny Carson was the undisputed king of late night TV with more than 5,000 episodes over a 30 year run with an average of 38 million viewers for his shows during the 1960s. His final appearance as host of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1992 attracted more than 50 million viewers. His perfect formula of light-hearted reviews of the day’s news, super star guests and silly sketches made him an entertainment icon on screen but off screen he battled the respiratory illness emphysema. After he started smoking at just 13 years old Carson claimed he stopped smoking more than a decade before his death at 79. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Johnny Carson” on Sunday, August 21 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT celebrates the late-night legend and examines his lung condition and the other contributing health factors that cost him his life. In 1973 a then up and coming comedian Freddie Prinze appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and was such a hit he became the first young comedian to be asked to sit for an interview with Carson. At the time Prinze was 19 years old and after the hit performance his comedy and acting career took off. But it was just three years later that Prinze would commit suicide ending a bright and promising career. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Freddie Prinze” on Sunday, August 21 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT presents his short but successful career with a look at what was happening in his personal life and his health that might have created the perfect storm leading him to his final act. Closing out August 2022 premieres and marking the 25th anniversary of the tragic death of Princess Diana is Diana: The Ultimate Truth delving into the lingering questions surrounding the car crash that took her life. On Sunday, August 28 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT Diana: The Ultimate Truth features security experts and crash investigators who are speaking out for the first time about working with Diana in her final days. Was her death truly the result of a tragic car accident or was it something more sinister?

Below is August 2022 programming listed by premiere date and time. Full synopses for every show follow this list.

Thursday, August 4

COPS – Six back-to-back episodes starting at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Friday, August 5

*NEW* On Patrol: Live at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Saturday, August 6

*NEW* On Patrol: Live at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Sunday, August 7

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Buddy Holly” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Thursday, August 11

COPS – Six back-to-back episodes starting at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Friday, August 12

*NEW* On Patrol: First Shift at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* On Patrol: Live at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Saturday, August 13

*NEW* On Patrol: First Shift at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* On Patrol: Live at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Sunday, August 14

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Paul Walker” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Chadwick Boseman” at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Brandon Lee” at 11pm ET/ 8pm PT

Thursday, August 18

COPS – Six back-to-back episodes starting at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Friday, August 19

*NEW* On Patrol: First Shift at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* On Patrol: Live at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Saturday, August 20

*NEW* On Patrol: First Shift at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* On Patrol: Live at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Sunday, August 21

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Johnny Carson” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Freddie Prinze” at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT

Thursday, August 25

COPS – Six back-to-back episodes starting at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Friday, August 26

*NEW* On Patrol: First Shift at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* On Patrol: Live at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Saturday, August 27

*NEW* On Patrol: First Shift at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* On Patrol: Live at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Sunday, August 28

*NEW* Diana: The Ultimate Truth at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Below are detailed descriptions for August 2022 programming in order of premiere date and time:

COPS – Every Thursday in August features six back-to-back episodes of the original COPS making their REELZ premieres starting at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. The original reality ride-along series and pioneer of the unscripted television explosion takes viewers coast to coast and to the front lines with the men and women of American law enforcement where the action is visceral, unpredictable and as real as it gets. COPS is produced by Langley Productions.

On Patrol: Live -New episodes every Friday and Saturday starting at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. Host and executive producer Dan Abrams reunites with former Tulsa Police Department Sgt. Sean “Sticks” Larkin alongside Deputy Sheriff Curtis Wilson. Together, they provide minute-by-minute live analysis as the series documents for viewers in real time the everyday work of police officers on patrol from diverse departments across America. On Patrol: Live will also engage the community by inviting them into the series. “Citizen Ride-Alongs” will give local residents, within the communities of the departments appearing on the show, a first-hand perspective as they ride along with officers followed by On Patrol: Live cameras on live nights; “Citizens On-Set” invites community members into the studio as guests where they can share their Ride-Along experiences and observations and comment on the night’s live activities. Both features offer a unique opportunity for viewers and members of the community to gain unprecedented access to law enforcement – from routine calls and high-stakes incidents to tracking down fugitives of justice and recovering missing children. The live show content is complemented by public-service segments dedicated to finding missing children and tracking down America’s worst and most wanted criminals. It all adds up to the most dynamic and compelling show on live TV where the promise of “anything can happen” and “I’ve never seen that before” is always delivered to the viewer. For updates on the series or to join the conversation go to OPLive.com and follow #OPLive, #OnPatrolLive, #OPNation on social media and r/OfficialOnPatrolLive on Reddit. On Patrol: Live is produced by Half Moon Pictures for REELZ.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Buddy Holly” premieres on Sunday, August 7 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. Buddy Holly’s brief life came to a violent end in a tragic plane crash that also claimed the lives of fellow singers the Big Bopper and Richie Valens. Holly was just 22 years old but his influence on the history and development of rock and roll is beyond measure. The modest and unassuming young Texan was there at the very start of rock and roll creating a style that influenced Bob Dylan, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones among many others. The official report lists Holly’s cause of death as gross trauma to the brain combined with multiple fractures and lacerations. He died on impact. But the crash report also describes the flight as “unwise”. His aircraft took off in minus nine degrees and with a storm in his flight path. How did the writer of such luminous hits as “Peggy Sue”, “That’ll Be the Day” and “Oh Boy!” come to strap himself into a small plane in the early morning hours of a frigid and stormy Midwest night? Now renowned forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter analyzes the details of his case to understand the circumstances behind Holly’s death. The singer often appeared to be a man in a hurry. He was always pushing – trying to make things happen. Did Holly push too hard to make the trip? Is there something in his medical history that could help explain his fateful decision to board the doomed flight? Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

On Patrol: First Shift premieres on Friday, August 12 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT. Dan Abrams, Sean “Sticks” Larkin and Curtis Wilson discuss what’s in store for the upcoming episode of On Patrol: Live and provide a sneak peak of the departments and officers that the cameras will be following. The hosts will also look back at the most memorable moments from past episodes including everything from police pursuits to encounters with unforgettable suspects, as well as inspiring acts of heroism and courage under fire. New episodes of On Patrol: First Shift will air on Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT leading into the new episodes of On Patrol: Live. On Patrol: First Shift is produced by Half Moon Pictures for REELZ.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Paul Walker” premieres on Sunday, August 14 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. On November 30, 2013 the shocking news that star of Hollywood action franchise The Fast and the Furious Paul Walker had died. In a tragic twist of fate for the lifelong car racing enthusiast the 40-year-old heartthrob was killed in a high speed car accident. The ultimate action hero Walker had a thirst for thrills etched into his DNA maternal grandfather raced cars at the famous Bonneville Speedway. Walker and the action movie industry became a perfect fit earning him a fortune and the means to indulge his passion for fast cars. But after a decade contracted to The Fast and the Furious series Walker was looking beyond movies after reconnecting with his daughter and launching his own disaster relief charity. During a Thanksgiving break from filming the latest turbo-charged outing of the multi-million franchise Walker hosted a charity event featuring a bevy of custom cars. Walker and his business partner Roger Rodas took a quick spin around the block in rare Porsche supercar but something went terribly wrong and the pair perished in a horrific accident. But what exactly happened? Now renowned forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter examines the details of the crash to determine what caused the crash and if there was anything in Walker’s medical history that led to him not being behind the wheel and in control of his fate. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Chadwick Boseman” premieres on Sunday, August 14 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. On August 28, 2020 the iconic superhero Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman died from cancer at just 43 years old leaving fans shocked as many including friends and colleagues were unaware he was even battling colon cancer. Boseman was known for dedicating himself completely to important roles including Thurgood Marshall and Jackie Robinson so after seeing his weight loss fans thought he might have been losing weight for a role but Boseman was quietly fighting to live after a colonoscopy in 2016 revealed stage III colon cancer. The survival rate for colon cancer at his age of diagnosis at 39 is between 72-90% so why was his life cut so tragically short? Now renowned forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter will examine all of the available records including Boseman’s medical history and first hand accounts about his life from family, friends and colleagues including his bodyguard Charles Carter and biographer Mia Johnson to understand why this shining star was died so young. Boseman was known for dedicating himself to his work and with the rigorous demands of being on set and frequent travel did his busy schedule prevent him from crucial cancer screenings further delaying proper treatment? Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Brandon Lee” premieres on Sunday, August 14 at 11pm ET/ 8pm PT. On March 31, 1993 the world was shocked by the news that 28-year-old Brandon Lee son of martial arts legend Bruce Lee was fatally shot on the set of The Crow in what was to be his breakout role. But how could an accident like this happen when the gun that fired the fatal shot was supposedly loaded with blanks? The freak accident was so rare that speculation swirled around its circumstances including a terrifying similarity between the Brandon shooting and a scene in his father’s movie The Game of Death in which his character is killed by a real bullet in a hail of fake rounds. As part of their investigation authorities even tracked down possible ties to organized crime. Now renowned forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter explores the many theories surrounding his death and more importantly how the supremely fit martial artist died from an abdominal gunshot wound when the chances of survival seemed to be stacked in his favor as nearly 90% of victims of single gunshot wounds to the abdomen survive. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Johnny Carson” premieres on Sunday, August 21 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. The undisputed king of late night TV Johnny Carson died in Los Angeles in January 2005. For nearly 30 years starting in 1962 he entertained millions of Americans every night as the host of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. His humor and laid back demeanor attracted the biggest stars night after night and his famed monologues helped viewers take in the day’s news with a wry smile. But away from the cameras Carson was a troubled man haunted by an emotionally impoverished childhood leading to heavy drinking and womanizing in his adult life. Carson paid a heavy price for the stresses in his personal and professional lives. A heavy smoker from childhood he was diagnosed with the lung disease emphysema nearly 20 years before his death which made it increasingly hard for him to breathe and took a heavy toll on his heart culminating in a heart attack in 1999 and his death six years later from respiratory arrest. Now renowned forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter examines Carson’s life story and medical history to find out how his struggles with emotional and physical health combined to end the life of this entertainment giant. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Freddie Prinze” premieres on Sunday, August 21 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. Freddie Prinze was a standout talent in the New York City stand-up comedy scene who rocketed to fame after appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson at just 19 years old. Soon after he scored a starring role as Chico Rodriguez on the primetime sitcom Chico and the Man. But Prinze struggled to balance his fast rise to fame and fortune with the demands of being a husband and young father. His recreational drug use spiraled into full-blown dependence and his behavior became increasingly impulsive and reckless. Was it all becoming too much for Prinze to handle? On January 29, 1977 the world was stunned by the news that Prinze had taken his own life at the age of 22. Now renowned forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter analyzes every detail in his medical records to piece together what exactly caused this bright young comic with the world at his feet to take his own life. Was there something else going on inside his body that could’ve influenced his decision making? Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Diana: The Ultimate Truth premieres on Sunday, August 28 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. In August 1997 the world mourned the loss of a global icon in Diana the Princess of Wales. A decade after her death an official British inquest concluded the car crash in which she died was caused by the grossly negligent driving of her chauffer Henri Paul and the group of paparazzi photographers who were following them. But now 25 years later many questions about what happened and who is responsible still remain. Featuring exclusive never before heard interviews Diana: The Ultimate Truth features former detective and investigative journalist Mark Williams-Thomas examining some of the theories that have emerged since Diana’s death and will set out to answer key questions: Could Diana have actually survived the crash if she had been treated differently at the scene? What impact did Diana’s explosive and controversial BBC Panorama interview have on the final years of her life and did the interview set off a chain of events that actually led to her death? And, finally, was the British establishment involved in her death? The investigation by Williams-Thomas includes exclusive interviews with security expert Grahame Harding who speaks out for the first time about being hired by Diana to examine her phones and personal living quarters out of concerns for wiretaps and microphones. Also interviewed photographers at the Metropolitan Police involved with the case as well as close friends of Diana and people involved with the infamous BBC interview. Diana: The Ultimate Truth is produced by Content Kings.

About REELZ – REAL LIVES. REAL STORIES. REAL CELEBRITIES.(R)

REELZ is an independent television network focused on celebrity culture with poignant stories about real people in revealing documentaries and character profiles. Programming ranges from the critically acclaimed and award-winning The Kennedys to Autopsy: The Last Hours Of. Insight to classic cultural entertainment is told through The Unknown Story, covering Jurassic Park to Three’s Company, while Breaking the Band reveals the drama behind iconic bands from the 80s and 90s. Along with stories about celebrities from movies and music, the network is also home to true crime stories including Gangsters, Mobsters, COPS, COPS Reloaded and Jail impacting real communities across America.

REELZ is available as a live linear network in more than 40 million homes on DIRECTV channel 238, DISH Network channel 299, Verizon FiOS TV channel 692HD, AT&T U-verse channels 799/1799HD and Xfinity, Spectrum, and many other cable systems nationwide. Other non-linear versions of REELZ library programs that do not include On Patrol: Live as it airs are available in more than 30 million additional homes. The library versions of REELZ can be found via major streaming platforms such as Amazon Channels, Fire TV, Roku, Pluto TV, Tubi, Samsung Smart TV+, Vizio, Crackle, Xumo, Redbox and others.

Find REELZ in your area by visiting www.reelz.com. REELZ is a High-Definition network and if it is not available, or not in HD, on your cable or telco provider, we encourage viewers to call them and ask for it. Owned by Hubbard Media Group, REELZ is headquartered in Albuquerque, NM with national ad sales based in New York City with offices in Chicago. As one of the last truly independent television networks remaining in today’s media landscape REELZ has created the Independence Happens Here(R) website to help keep free thought and innovation alive by highlighting the importance of independent businesses. The website can be found at http://IndependenceHappensHere.com.



May 2022 Premieres Celebrate the Legacies of TV Legends

Posted on by Danielle Langer





May 2022 Premieres Celebrate the Legacies of TV Legends, Wrestling Idols and American Icons Along with New Stories About Villainous Organized Crime Members in 14 New Originals
New episodes of “Autopsy: The Last Hours of…” and “Gangsters: America’s Most Evil” are among Reelz’s featured highlights.
[via press release from Reelz]
MAY 2022 PREMIERES CELEBRATE THE LEGACIES OF TV LEGENDS, WRESTLING IDOLS AND AMERICAN ICONS ALONG WITH NEW STORIES ABOUT VILLAINOUS ORGANIZED CRIME MEMBERS IN 14 NEW ORIGINALS

‘Autopsy: The Last Hours of… ‘ Returns with New Stories Celebrating the Illustrious Lives and Tragic Deaths of Ricardo Montalbán, Andre the Giant, Eddie Guerrero, Telly Savalas, James Garner, Jacqueline Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr.

‘Gangsters: America’s Most Evil’ Returns with New Stories About Notorious Mobsters Sam Giancana, Nicky Scarfo and Anthony Spilotro Along with Philadelphia Intimidator Dawud Bey and Motor City Criminals Young Boys Incorporated and Chester Campbell

‘The Love Boat: Happily Ever After’ Sets Sail with Original Cast Members Celebrating the Show That Gave Audiences an Ocean Sized Dose of Escapism and Romance on the High Seas

Eight Back-to-Back Episodes of The Original ‘Cops’ Documentary Reality Series Make Their REELZ Premieres Starting Mid May Showcasing the Real Stories of Law Enforcement in the Line of Duty Across America

Every Saturday in May Features Eight Back-to-Back Episodes of Real Life Series ‘Jail’ Making Their REELZ Premieres Showing the Harsh and Sometimes Humorous Reality of What Happens Behind Bars

(Albuquerque, NM) Tuesday, April 19, 2022 – REELZ today announced its May 2022 premieres with 14 new originals including the return of Autopsy: The Last Hours of… with new stories about the towering careers and tragic passings of revered TV stars Ricardo Montalbán, Telly Savalas and James Garner along with professional wrestling headliners Andre the Giant and Eddie Guerrero and two members of an American dynasty in Jacqueline Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr. May 2022 premieres also feature new stories in Gangsters: America’s Most Evil about ruthless and cunning real life characters in organized crime from hitmen and intimidators Chester Campbell and Dawud Bey to the Detroit drug cartel Young Boys Incorporated and volatile mobsters Nicky Scarfo, Sam Giancana and Anthony Spilotro. The new original special The Love Boat: Happily Ever After celebrates the charming TV series with its stars including Bernie Kopell, Ted Lange, Fred Grandy, Cynthia Lauren Tewes, Jill Whelan and Ted McGinley discussing how fast moving romance on a slow moving ship became must-see TV. Starting Friday, May 13 eight back-to-back episodes of the original hit documentary reality series COPS make their REELZ premieres every Friday with the unscripted action from the front lines of law enforcement across America and every Saturday in May features eight back-to-back episodes of real life series Jail making their REELZ premieres following inmates around the country from their initial booking through their first moments behind bars.

“From beloved stars of the small screen, wrestling ring and an American family dynasty who warmed our hearts to members of organized crime whose sinister stories send chills down our spines our May 2022 premieres tell the stories of legends in two very different worlds,” said Steve Cheskin, SVP of Programming at REELZ. “With the focus of Autopsy: The Last Hours of… on the causes behind a celebrity’s passing we often hear from viewers who tell us they have become more proactive for the benefit of their health after watching stories in which medical outcomes might have been different with an earlier diagnosis or a lifestyle change.”

The May 2022 lineup begins on Sunday, May 1 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT with The Love Boat: Happily Ever After about the unexpected smash hit show that captivated audiences of all ages and its hijinks on the high seas are just as appreciated now as they were four decades ago. Now in The Love Boat: Happily Ever After stars from the show including Bernie Kopell, Ted Lange, Fred Grandy, Cynthia Lauren Tewes, Jill Whelan and Ted McGinley share their experiences of its signature blend of romance, drama and laughs along with stories of filming at exotic ports of call and many guest stars who would later become big stars including Tom Hanks, Courteney Cox and Michael J. Fox. Also celebrated for its stellar guest stars and its own island-sized dose of escapism the TV series Fantasy Island showed viewers a unique resort island with an equally enigmatic host in Mr. Roarke played by Ricardo Montalbán. His onscreen charisma was bolstered by the physicality he brought to his roles and he was known to be a fit and healthy man so what happened to bring about his fatal catastrophic heart failure? On Sunday, May 1 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Ricardo Montalbán” examines his life with a look at the health issues he faced and whether a childhood condition impacted his health later in life.

Dawud ‘Cool’ Bey was involved in witness intimidation as a member of the brutal and violent Kaboni Savage Organization that worked the north side of Philadelphia. In Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Dawud ‘Cool’ Bey” on Tuesday, May 3 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT Bey himself discusses his turbulent life rising in the criminal ranks, time in prison, turning down a rap music deal with Jay-Z and the moment everything changed for him and he devoted himself to healing the community he once terrorized. While Bey was known as the Intimidator of Philadelphia Butch Jones referred to himself as the Henry Ford of heroin trafficking after molding his Young Boys Incorporated criminal enterprise on the assembly line efficiency of the famous automaker. His infamous run during the late 1970s as one of the worst criminals in the history of Detroit was due in part to his use of teenagers to sell drugs and perform other criminal tasks ensuring senior members of the gang never faced risky street level work. On Tuesday, May 3 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Young Boys Incorporated” delves into the dark deeds of Jones and how he built his Detroit crime empire.

Known as the Eighth Wonder of the World Andre Roussimoff aka Andre the Giant ruled professional wrestling during the 1970s and 1980s using his extraordinary physique at 7’4″ tall and weighing 500lbs. to become rich and eventually a star in Hollywood. But his size haunted him throughout his life and his untimely passing at 46 years old prompted questions about his rare hormonal condition Acromegaly. Now Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Andre the Giant” on Sunday, May 8 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT examines his remarkable career in which he pushed his body to its limits and the enormous stress his size and lifestyle had on his health. Another wrestling superstar known for his tireless showmanship is Eddie Guerrero whose iconic Latino Heat persona won the hearts of millions of fans. Considered by many as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time Guerrero’s death at 38 years old stunned the wrestling world. Now Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Eddie Guerrero” on Sunday, May 8 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT delves into his tragic passing reviewing his medical history including his troubling addiction to opioid pain medication and the toll his body paid over his 20-year wrestling career.

Despite his moniker ‘Little Nicky’ due to his small stature organized crime boss Nicodemo Scarfo’s propensity for jarring violence was anything but small. Scarfo created chaos within the Philadelphia mob through treachery, backstabbing and a lot of murder. On Tuesday, May 10 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “‘Little’ Nicky Scarfo” documents his violent rise through the mob ranks and his murderous reign over the Atlantic City gambling scene. If he was a fictional character on the 1970s crime drama series Kojak Scarfo would no doubt have been a tough case for Lt. Theo Kojak. The charming detective with his famous bald head was known for fiercely going after criminals and was played brilliantly by Telly Savalas. On Sunday, May 15 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Telly Savalas” celebrates his storied career and investigates his final days including what caused the sudden decline in his health as he appeared to be leading a full and busy life just weeks before his passing. So what is the truth behind the death of TV’s favorite detective? Also premiering on Sunday, May 15 is the story of another star who like Savalas exuded a signature magnetism on screen. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “James Garner” at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT shows how he dazzled audiences for more than 50 years starting with his undeniable charm as the cheeky and reluctant hero on 1950s hit Maverick. As a stoic and private man Garner secretly battled with ill health for more than 30 years but what exactly caused his heart to fail and did a lapse in medical care ultimately seal his fate?

He was brash, unstable and violent with connections to John F. Kennedy and Frank Sinatra along with legendary stories straight out of Hollywood including being recruited by the CIA to help assassinate Fidel Castro. Sam Giancana rose to the top of the Chicago based mob called the Outfit in the late 1950s and Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Sam Giancana” on Tuesday, May 17 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT presents his crime legacy that touched presidents, movie stars and the sordid underbelly of the mafia. The lore of Giancana also encompasses Jacqueline Kennedy whose husband John F. Kennedy had a few unsavory connections with the mob boss including having a relationship with the same woman during his marriage. The slight against Jackie would hardly tarnish her legacy as she would become an American icon and admired First Lady symbolizing courage and grace through extraordinary tragedy. On Sunday, May 22 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis” celebrates her remarkable life and examines whether a misdiagnosis played a role in the deadly disease that led to her rapid demise at 64 years old. It would be just five years later that America would again confront the loss of another Kennedy when John F. Kennedy Jr. perished in a plane crash along with his wife and sister-in-law. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “John F. Kennedy Jr.” on Sunday, May 22 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT shows his short but exceptional life emerging from the shadows of his famous father and family to build a life of his own and investigates whether there was something in his medical history that could help explain the accident.

Wrapping May 2022 premieres are the real stories about two of the most vicious killers to ever work in organized crime. On Tuesday, May 24 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Anthony Spilotro” delves into the sordid story of the man intelligence agents said is a “psychopathic thug with no reservations about killing anyone”. Spilotro, who earned such a reputation for his murderous ways, served as inspiration for the villainous Nicky Santoro character played by Joe Pesci in the movie Casino. While Spilotro was known for drawing unwanted attention to mob operations the prolific hitman Chester Campbell operated in the shadows and became one of the most sought after contract killers in organized crime circles. On Tuesday, May 31 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Chester Campbell” profiles the cold-blooded and cunning Detroit hitman who has been described as John Wick combined with Hannibal Lector and an evil James Bond with his 140 IQ and a body count of more than 100 people.

Below is May 2022 programming listed by premiere date and time. Full synopses for every show follow this list.

Sunday, May 1

*NEW* The Love Boat: Happily Ever After at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Ricardo Montalbán” at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT

Tuesday, May 3

*NEW* Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Dawud ‘Cool’ Bey” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

*NEW* Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Young Boys Incorporated” at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT

Saturday, May 7

Jail – Eight back-to-back episodes of starting at 6pm ET/ 3pm PT

Sunday, May 8

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Andre the Giant” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Eddie Guerrero” at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT

Tuesday, May 10

*NEW* Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “‘Little’Nicky Scarfo” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Friday, May 13

COPS – Eight back-to-back episodes starting at 7pm ET/ 4pm PT

Saturday, May 14

Jail – Eight back-to-back episodes of starting at 6pm ET/ 3pm PT

Sunday, May 15

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Telly Savalas” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “James Garner” at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT

Tuesday, May 17

*NEW* Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Sam Giancana” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Friday, May 20

COPS – Eight back-to-back episodes starting at 7pm ET/ 4pm PT

Saturday, May 21

Jail – Eight back-to-back episodes of starting at 6pm ET/ 3pm PT

Sunday, May 22

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “John F. Kennedy Jr.” at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT

Tuesday, May 24

*NEW* Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Anthony Spilotro” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Friday, May 27

COPS – Eight back-to-back episodes starting at 7pm ET/ 4pm PT

Saturday, May 28

Jail – Eight back-to-back episodes of starting at 6pm ET/ 3pm PT

Tuesday, May 31

*NEW* Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Chester Campbell” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Below are detailed descriptions for May 2022 programming listed by premiere date and time:

The Love Boat: Happily Ever After premieres on Sunday, May 1 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT. Now 45 years after it first sailed into living rooms and made Saturday night TV synonymous with romance, camp and high-seas hijinks The Love Boat still inspires a surprisingly fierce nostalgia that just won’t quit. The show was an unexpected smash hit that captivated audiences of all ages allowing armchair travelers to virtually gallivant around the world with endless amounts of legendary guest stars some of whom had yet to become big names including Tom Hanks, Courteney Cox and Michael J. Fox while others were legends of the silver screen including Olivia de Havilland and Ginger Rogers. Surprisingly the now iconic show just barely made it to air and the entire TV industry expected it to fail miserably. But instead of sinking The Love Boat beat all the odds with its signature blend of romance, drama and laughs unleashed in increasingly exotic ports of call. Now in The Love Boat: Happily Ever After stars from the show including Bernie Kopell, Ted Lange, Fred Grandy, Cynthia Lauren Tewes, Jill Whelan and Ted McGinley discuss its magic formula and why it wasn’t always smooth sailing on the sometimes floating set. The Love Boat: Happily Ever After is produced by AMS Pictures.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Ricardo Montalbán” premieres on Sunday, May 1 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. On January 14, 2009 the revered actor Ricardo Montalbán died from congestive heart failure at 88 years old. Born in Mexico, he discovered a passion for acting while studying English in the USA. His natural charm and good looks mixed with an innate talent led to an acting career that spanned seven decades including his famous roles as the enigmatic Mr. Roarke on Fantasy Island and Captain Kirk’s ultimate nemesis Khan in the Star Trek movie franchise. As charming off screen as he was on it Montalbán masked a life-long struggle with chronic pain and a debilitating condition. Now renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter uses Montalbán’s death certificate and first-hand accounts of his life to uncover the truth behind the devastating heart failure that killed the revered actor. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Dawud ‘Cool’ Bey” premieres on Tuesday, May 3 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. Dawud “Cool” Bey was known as the Philly Intimidator and he was a key player within the Kaboni Savage Organization (KSO) a violent drug trafficking gang in Philadelphia led by Kaboni Savage. Now Bey gives a first-hand account of life in the KSO as he tours the streets of Philadelphia showing viewers where his life of crime unfolded. The gang led a multi-million dollar operation that distributed illegal narcotics such as PCP, marijuana and cocaine and the KSO was notorious for their tactics of fear, violence and intimidation. In late 2004 Bey was arrested and indicted for running a cocaine manufacturing and distribution with Savage. During Bey’s incarceration a wiretap revealed Bey and Savage talking boldly about violent retribution for anyone testifying against them. At a 2006 federal hearing Bey pled guilty to conspiracy to manufacture and distribute cocaine. At his sentencing hearing prosecutors requested that obstruction of justice be added to his charges. After serving 10 years in prison Bey became a free man in 2014 and is now focused on efforts to rebuild his community and leads an anti-violence program in the community he once terrorized.

Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Young Boys Incorporated” premieres on Tuesday, May 3 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. Young Boys Incorporated (YBI) was a violent drug-trafficking gang founded in Detroit in the late 1970s and Milton “Butch” Jones, Raymond Peoples and Dwayne Davis rose through the ranks and ran the organization. YBI made a name for itself as a major supplier of heroin during the 1970s and 1980s. At the time their operation was considered innovative because it employed teenage boys to distribute drugs on the streets risking low level members who’d be charged as minors if they were caught instead of senior YBI members who would be sent to prison. In September of 1982 it was alleged that Butch ordered the execution of Davis over a turf dispute. Despite serving time in prison for federal drug charges as well as separate charges for the murder of Davis and another fellow gang member. Upon release Jones continued to be the boss of YBI but his fate was sealed in 2001 when he was indicted on drug charges in Detroit. The case against Jones and his crew members included robberies, kidnapping and murders of rival drug traffickers and he was finally sentenced to 30 years in prison. Sharing his experiences as a former Detroit Police detective who saw the YBI carnage firsthand is James Tolbert along with retired FBI Special Agent Andrew Bartnowak.

Jail- Eight back-to-back episodes of Jail make their REELZ premiere every Saturday in May starting on Saturday, May 7 at 6pm ET/ 3pm PT. Shot on location at various jails throughout America the series follows inmates from their initial booking through their first moments in jail capturing the harsh and sometimes humorous reality of what happens behind bars. Jail is produced by Langley Productions.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Andre the Giant” premieres on Sunday, May 8 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. On January 28, 1993 wrestling legend Andre The Giant died in a hotel room in Paris France. He was only 46 years old. Trading on his extraordinary physique Andre Roussimoff was the biggest draw in the wrestling world throughout the 1970s and 1980s as he towered above the competition at 7’4″ tall and 500lbs and was billed as the Eighth Wonder of the World. It was only a matter of time before the movie industry came calling and in 1986 Andre starred in the fantasy hit The Princess Bride. But privately Andre had been haunted by his size throughout his life. He made no secret of his belief that the world wasn’t made for people of his stature and everything from cars, hotel rooms and airplanes all presented challenges and frustrations. Born in France Andre had grown prodigiously in his late teens. When his size and agility caught the eye of a wrestling promoter his path out of poverty was set. Japan and North America beckoned and the legend Andre the Giant started to grow as did the stories of his phenomenal appetite for alcohol. By the mid-1980s Andre was the star attraction in professional wrestling but what his fans didn’t know was that a rare condition was eroding his once superhuman strength and the clock was ticking on his life. In 1993 after receiving news that his father had just days to live Andre returned to France. Two weeks later Andre had also passed away. Now renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter analyzes his long medical history and the interviews with close friends and family members to determine the reason for his death. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Eddie Guerrero” premieres on Sunday, May 8 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. Eddie Guerrero was considered by fans and peers alike as one of the greatest pound-for-pound wrestlers in history. He was born into a wrestling dynasty with his dad Gory Guerrero celebrated as one of the best Mexican-American Luchadores of his generation. Eddie’s career as a professional wrestler spanned 20 years and saw him battle adversity from overcoming his diminutive stature to dealing with addiction and depression. Against all odds Eddie had his Latino Heat WWE character lie, cheat and steal his way to the very top of the wrestling world and fans couldn’t get enough. In 2005 he was crowned World Champion but less than two years later Eddie was found dead in his hotel room on the morning of a scheduled match. He was just 38 years old. With the help of industry insiders including fellow superstar wrestler Rob Van Dam and former WWE Physician Dr. F. Louis Rios shedding light on the physical and mental strain Guerrero experienced as a top professional wrestler renown forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter examines the myriad factors that could have played a role in his untimely death. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “‘Little’Nicky Scarfo” premieres on Tuesday, May 10 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. Nicodemo Scarfo was nicknamed “Little Nicky” because of his size at 5’ 5″ tall and weighing 135 pounds but no one dared call him that to his face. Scarfo rose to power during one of the bloodiest periods in Philadelphia’s organized crime history. More than two dozen mob members or associates were murdered between 1980 and 1985 as Scarfo took control of the Philadelphia mob ushering in a cutthroat era of hits within its ranks. Scarfo was drawn to the limelight as he frequently boasted to associates about the murders he committed and about his status in the underworld. When the streets of Philadelphia turned red hot Scarfo sought refuge in Atlantic City and was perfectly positioned to take advantage of the gambling gold rush after the first Atlantic City casino opened in 1978 but Scarfo had no intention of taking a clean cut of the action. His victims included an Atlantic City municipal court judge, an Atlantic City cement contractor, a longshoreman and several mob associates. Helping to tell the hyperviolent history of Scarfo is former federal prosecutor Louis Picinni, retired FBI special agent Charles “Bud” Warner and writer and former mobster George Martarano.

COPS – Starting Friday, May 13 at 7pm ET/ 4pm PT every Friday in May features eight back-to-back episodes of the original COPS making their REELZ premieres. The original reality ride-along series and pioneer of the unscripted television explosion takes viewers coast to coast and to the front lines with the men and women of American law enforcement where the action is visceral, unpredictable and as real as it gets. COPS is produced by Langley Productions.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Telly Savalas” premieres on Sunday, May 15 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. On January 22, 1994 just one day after his 72nd birthday actor Telly Savalas died at the Sheraton Universal Hotel in Los Angeles. He is immortalized in the most famous part he played as the beloved bald headed Detective Lt. Theo Kojak on the series Kojak. Savalas rose from a roller coaster childhood which saw him pitched from private school and privilege into living in the harsh realities of the Lower East Side in New York City during the Great Depression of the 1930s. He never intended to be an actor but in his mid-30s he attended an audition by chance and won the part which launched his acting career. He quickly won plaudits from critics and moviegoers alike playing chilling psychopaths before landing the part of hardnosed but kind hearted and lollipop loving cop Kojak on the small screen. He became an unlikely sex symbol and embraced the Hollywood lifestyle eagerly and that may have been his downfall. The death certificate states that he suffered kidney failure as a result of bladder cancer but while almost half of those diagnosed with bladder cancer survive for 10 years after diagnosis Savalas was dead within a month and many still attribute his death to a different cause. What was the truth behind the rumors and could his celebrated bald head be connected with something in his medical history that played a role in his death? Renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter analyzes every detail of his life to piece together the facts of what happened. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “James Garner” premieres on Sunday, May 15 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. On July 19, 2014 the world was shocked and saddened by the news that American actor and producer James Garner had died at the age of 86. Garner had made a name for himself as a genuine star of his generation boasting a career that spanned six decades. Starring in more than 80 movies and TV shows Garner created TV characters including Bret Maverick from the western series Maverick and private detective Jim Rockford in The Rockford Files. Before acting he was the first man from Oklahoma to be drafted to the Korean War where he sustained numerous injuries. Garner caught his first acting break by chance after discovering an old friend had become an actor’s agent and it was the role of Maverick catapulted him to Hollywood stardom. He was one of the few actors who made it big in both movies and TV in a time when it was rare to do so. Garner became a folk hero to other actors when he won huge legal battles against two of the biggest studios breaking his contract and clawing back hidden revenues. But behind his success, stoicism and smile there was hidden pain as he secretly battled ill health for more than three decades. Garner suffered from multiple life-threatening conditions and had undergone numerous surgeries and struggled both mentally and physically. Now renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter will analyze his personal history, lifestyle and medical past to understand his health struggles and what ultimately took his life. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Sam Giancana” premieres on Tuesday, May 17 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. Sam Giancana was a top mob boss who grew up on the West Side of Chicago. He started out as a driver for Al Capone the legendary leader of the Chicago mob called the Outfit but had plans of total domination over Chicago crime. By the beginning of the Great Depression Giancana was profiting from Prohibition and building his own reputation for violence having narrowly escaped a prison sentence for murder. In the annals of organized crime few names cut a wider swath than that of Giancana who from 1957-1966 was the infamous head of the Outfit and his legend is entangled with US presidents, movie stars and the worst of the worst in the mafia underworld. Giancana is not only known for his violent acts and his high profile in the media but also his connections to decades long conspiracy theories involving both the Kennedy family and the CIA’s attempted assassination of Fidel Castro. Sharing his stories as former member of the Outfit is Frank Calabrese, Jr. while former special FBI agent Ross Rice explains the extent of Giancana’s crimes and investigative journalist Gerald Posner sheds light on the many celebrity connections to the mob boss.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis” premieres on Sunday, May 22 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. On May 19, 1994 the world was shocked and saddened by the news that beloved American icon Jackie Kennedy Onassis had died. At 31 years old Jackie was one of the youngest first ladies to enter the White House as John F. Kennedy became president in 1960. Jackie made a huge impression on the nation and the rest of the world leading the stage for many first ladies to come. She became one of the most famous women in the world but behind the fairy tale story was a life of trauma and tragedy. Jackie lost three children including Patrick who lived for only a day. Patrick died just three months before Jackie endured the horrific day in Dallas in 1963 when she sat next to her husband as he was gunned down in front of the world. Then five years later her brother-in-law Bobby Kennedy was also killed and she began to fear for her life and the lives of her children. After marrying eccentric billionaire Aristotle Onassis and stepping away from the intense American media spotlight Jackie overcame her fear and carved out a new life for herself. For 30 years she was a successful book publisher and lived near her two children in New York City. After being diagnosed with the blood cancer Non-Hodgkin lymphoma only months earlier Jackie died at the age of 64. Now renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter will examine her medical history factoring in her lifestyle and other health factors to better understand any risk factors that could have played a role. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “John F. Kennedy Jr.” premieres on Sunday, May 22 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. On July 16, 1999 John F. Kennedy Jr. crashed his Piper Sartoga aircraft into the ocean off Martha’s Vineyard. He died along with his wife Carolyn and her sister Lauren. John was just 38 years old. In a family unusually familiar with tragic death the loss of John was immediately wrapped in the bloody shroud of the Kennedy curse but long before his death John understood and was conscious of this cycle of disaster some of which was self inflicted. If anybody looked capable of outrunning the dark family history it was him. As the world watched him grow into his own success as co-founder of politics-as-lifestyle George magazine many couldn’t resist the idea of a Kennedy returning to White House as it was a narrative that was hard to resist. That all ended with his fatal flight in the summer of 1999. The world had wept at the funeral of his father in 1963 and they wept again as John’s ashes were scattered from a US Navy destroyer off the coast of Massachusetts. His death certificate lists his cause of death as multiple traumatic injuries but John was flying a route he knew well and had flown many times so now renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter will examine any clues in his life and his health record that might help explain what could have played a role on that fateful day. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Tony ‘the Ant’ Spilotro” premieres Tuesday, May 24 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. Spilotro was a soldier and enforcer for the Chicago organized crime group known as the Outfit and was assigned to protect their Las Vegas “skim” of illegal diversions of casino profits to the mob. But instead of keeping the skim running smooth and mob activities out of the news Spilotro couldn’t control his appetite for illegal action and he set up several side schemes including loan sharking and home burglaries to then sell stolen merchandise in thrift stores he opened and ran in Las Vegas. These side hustles began to irk his mob bosses back in Chicago but it was his lust for violence and death that lead to an increase in gangland murders which caught the attention of authorities. Spilotro’s time in Las Vegas would represent the demise of control that organized crime had in the city. His psychopathic thug antics would serve as inspiration for Joe Pesci’s character in the movie Casino but the real man was far more horrific than what audiences ever saw in theaters. Sharing his insight into the dark deeds of Spilotro is former chief of intelligence operations at the DEA Michael Vigil along with John Binder whose book “The Chicago Outfit” details the incredible reach and destruction of the Chicago mob.

Gangsters: America’s Most Evil “Chester Campbell ‘King of the Contract Killers'” premieres on Tuesday, May 31 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. Chester Campbell was one of the most notorious and feared figures in Detroit and within the world of organized crime. A contract hitman Campbell was elusive and infamous in the city but there were two sides to him. On one side was the meticulous and calculated assassin and on the other was a cultured lover of fine arts touring art museums and attending the opera when he wasn’t savagely murdering people. He’s been called the Motor City Undertaker and described as a combination of John Wick, Hannibal Lector and an evil James Bond due to his brutal skillset and passion for stalking his targets from the shadows before murdering them in horrific fashion. Born in 1930 Campbell grew up in Detroit and as a teenager started his law breaking ways committing petty crimes eventually graduating to hard crime. Over a four decade criminal career that began in the mid-1950s Campbell would cement his terrifying legacy as a prolific underworld hitman sought after by mob bosses from major cities. In an FBI file on Campbell he’s listed as having an IQ of more than 140 alongside a body count of more than 100 people. Sharing their stories of Campbell are his niece and nephew along with author, journalist and historian Scott Burnstein and Christian Cipollini, author of “Diary of a Motor City Hitman: The Chester Wheeler Campbell Story”.

About REELZ – REAL LIVES. REAL STORIES. REAL CELEBRITIES.(R)

REELZ is a leading independent cable and satellite general entertainment network focused on celebrity culture with poignant stories about Hollywood in revealing documentaries and character profiles of the famous and infamous. Programming ranges from the critically acclaimed and award-winning The Kennedys to Real Story of… revealing the true stories behind hit movies including American Made and Selena. Along with shows about movies, fame and celebrity lifestyles the network is also home to true crime stories and Autopsy: The Last Hours of… which examines the final days of popular celebrities from Lucille Ball to Prince.

REELZ is available in 70 million homes on DIRECTV channel 238, DISH Network channel 299, Verizon FiOS TV channel 692HD, AT&T U-verse channels 799/1799HD and cable systems nationwide. Find REELZ in your area by visiting www.reelz.com. REELZ is a High-Definition network and if it is not available, or not in HD, on your cable or telco provider, we encourage viewers to call them and ask for it. Owned by Hubbard Media Group, REELZ is headquartered in Albuquerque, NM with national ad sales based in New York City with offices in Boston and Chicago. As one of the last truly independent television networks remaining in today’s media landscape REELZ has created the Independence Happens Here(R) website to help keep free thought and innovation alive by highlighting the importance of independent businesses. The website can be found at http://IndependenceHappensHere.com.



July 2021 Premieres Celebrate Beloved Legends of TV, Movies, Fashion and Live Entertainment

Posted on by Danielle Langer





July 2021 Premieres Celebrate Beloved Legends of TV, Movies, Fashion and Live Entertainment in All New Original Stories
Highlights coming to Reelz next month include six new episodes of “Autopsy: The Last Hours of…”
[via press release from Reelz]
JULY 2021 PREMIERES CELEBRATE BELOVED LEGENDS OF TV, MOVIES, FASHION AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT IN ALL NEW ORIGINAL STORIES

Luke Perry, Kate Spade, Steve Irwin, Roy Horn, Leonard Nimoy and Verne Troyer Are the Focus of New Stories in ‘Autopsy: The Last Hours of… ‘ About Their Remarkable Lives, Careers and Final Days

‘Shark Terror: USS Indianapolis’ Reveals the Harrowing Real Story of 900 Sailors Stranded on Open Waters Teeming with Aggressive and Hungry Sharks in a Brutal Battle for Survival

‘Amy Fisher: Kill for Me’ Features Failed Hitman Steven Sleeman Discussing His Role in the Sensational Scandal

‘Susan Smith: Sex Behind Bars’ Details the Devious Tryst Between the Convicted Murderer and a Prison Guard Who Gives a Shockingly Candid Interview About Their Illegal Conduct Behind Bars

(Albuquerque, NM) Tuesday, June 15, 2021 – REELZ today announced its July 2021 lineup with all new original stories in Autopsy: The Last Hours of… celebrating the lives of Luke Perry, Kate Spade, Steve Irwin, Roy Horn, Leonard Nimoy and Verne Troyer. Shark Terror: USS Indianapolis leads new original specials with the remarkable story of sailors who survived their ship sinking only to face a nightmare scenario of being attacked by sharks while Amy Fisher: Kill for Me and Susan Smith: Sex Behind Bars reveal the lurid scandals through never-before-heard interviews with those directly involved including Steven Sleeman who pulled the trigger for Amy Fisher as a would-be hitman and prison guard Alfred Rowe who risked everything for inmate Susan Smith.

“With new stories about ’90s TV megastar Luke Perry to the cherished crocodile hunter Steve Irwin, July premieres celebrate beloved stars whose contributions went far beyond entertaining,” said Steve Cheskin, SVP of Programming at REELZ. “We’re also excited to show viewers new original specials about the real lives entangled in the infamous Amy Fisher and Susan Smith cases and the powerful real stories of true grit and bravery among the crew of the USS Indianapolis.”

Kicking off July premieres is Shark Terror: USS Indianapolis on Saturday, July 10 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT about courage in the face of unimaginable odds. The sinking of the USS Indianapolis is the U.S. Navy’s largest ever single loss of life at sea and for the crew who survived the ship sinking they faced a daunting struggle for survival on the open waters of the Pacific Ocean. Nearly 900 sailors confronted the threat of death from above, below and within combating sun exposure, swarming hungry sharks and salt water poisoning. Then on Sunday, July 11 in back-to-back new episodes of Autopsy: The Last Hours of… starting at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT it’s the story of Luke Perry who skyrocketed to fame in the ’90s as bad boy heartthrob Dylan McKay on Beverly Hills, 90210 whose death at just 52-years old stunned fans. To help unlock the mystery of his passing medical examiner and forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter examines the case including new medical research relating to Perry’s health that may indicate his face was hiding a secret to his untimely death. Another life cut short is that of fashion mogul Kate Spade whose shocking suicide at 55 years old thrust mental health into the discussion surrounding her death. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Kate Spade” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT examines her story which on the surface seemed like a triumphant success as Spade was a loving and dedicated mother, wife and business woman with no vices or medical issues. So why in the prime of her life did she feel there was no other option but to end it all?

On Thursday, July 15 it’s back-to-back new original specials about infamous scandals and tragedies that captivated the nation with Amy Fisher: Kill for Me at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT followed by Susan Smith: Sex Behind Bars at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. In 1992 16-year-old Amy Fisher shot the wife of her lover in the head in a gruesome act of violence that ended a salacious series of events that involved crimes committed against and by minors. In Amy Fisher: Kill for Me Fisher’s former friend Steven Sleeman sheds new light on the story detailing his first-hand account of the murder-for-hire plot hatched by Fisher. Then in Susan Smith: Sex Behind Bars it’s been more than 25 years since Susan Smith was sentenced to life in prison for the drowning murders of her two children. While in prison Smith had sex with two prison guards who would eventually both lose their jobs and face convictions for illegal conduct. One of those guards, Alfred Rowe, shares a shockingly candid account of how the devious double murderess seduced him and how their secret sexual relationship left a devastating path of carnage in its wake.

Wildlife icon and passionate conservationist Steve Irwin wrestled crocodiles on The Crocodile Hunter watched by millions. When it emerged that the 44-year-old Irwin had been killed from a stingray barb to the heart there was disbelief given his decades of experience with dangerous animals and the fact that stingrays are relatively docile. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Steve Irwin” on Sunday, July 18 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT examines Irwin’s untimely death through the lens of his health leading up to that fateful day. Was there anything in his medical history that played a factor in the tragedy? Like Irwin, magician Roy Horn wowed audiences working with dangerous animals in what would become the world famous Siegfried and Roy shows featuring tigers, big cats and other large animals. Roy performed more than 30,000 live shows in 45 years with Siegfried grossing more than $1 billion but the show abruptly ended after a tiger attacked Horn. He survived but was partially paralyzed and lived for several more years but on May 8, 2020 at the age of 75 Horn became one of the first celebrities to die from complications with COVID-19. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Roy Horn” on Sunday, July 18 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT examines what was going on inside Horn’s body that left him vulnerable to the disease.

Leonard Nimoy gave life to one of television’s greatest characters in the half-human, half-Vulcan alien Spock on Star Trek. Although he spent only three years on the original Star Trek series before it was canceled Nimoy demonstrated a relentless work ethic. For nearly two decades his constant drive to achieve eventually started to cast a shadow on his health. In Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Leonard Nimoy” on Sunday, July 25 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT see how years of smoking cigarettes led to the complex lung disorder chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If proper treatment is established early people with COPD can live for several years so why did Nimoy die so quickly after his diagnosis? Joining Spock as a treasured and instantly recognizable character is Verne Troyer’s Mini-Me in the hit Austin Powers movie franchise which launched Troyer to global stardom but his success came with a heavy toll on his health. With Troyer’s fame came over indulgence in the form of heavy drinking exasperating his struggles with depression and severely stressing his body. His death at 49 years old from a reported suicide by excessive alcohol consumption seemed like a tragic end but in Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Verne Troyer” on Sunday, July 25 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT, Dr. Hunter reveals an integral and overlooked piece of Troyer’s autopsy report that could turn the suicide conclusion on its head.

Below is July 2021 programming listed by premiere date and time. Full synopses for every show follow this list.

Saturday, July 10

*NEW* Shark Terror: USS Indianapolis at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

Sunday, July 11

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Luke Perry” at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Kate Spade” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Thursday, July 15

*NEW* Amy Fisher: Kill For Me at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

*NEW* Susan Smith: Sex Behind Bars at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT

Sunday, July 18

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Steve Irwin” at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Roy Horn” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Saturday, July 25

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Leonard Nimoy” at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT

*NEW* Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Verne Troyer” at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT

Below are detailed descriptions for July 2021 programming listed by premiere date and time:

Shark Terror: USS Indianapolis Premieres on Saturday, July 10 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT. It’s the worst shark attack in history. While returning from a top secret mission to deliver components for the nuclear bomb Little Boy the heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis with 1,195 crewmen aboard is torpedoed and sunk. The rapid decent of the fragmenting ship immediately took hundreds of trapped sailors to their deaths. For the surviving 900 sailors the sinking ship was just the beginning of their nightmare. Shark Terror: USS Indianapolis reveals the terrifying real life story of the doomed cruiser and its crew as the surviving sailors faced four days of brutal sun exposure, dehydration and worst of all relentless attacks from countless hungry and aggressive sharks. Initially packs of Oceanic Whitetip and Tiger sharks focused on the floating dead but eventually they massed into a ruthless army and picked off the injured and struggling killing an estimated 150 sailors. Ultimately through shear tenacity and courage 316 survived the horrific ordeal. The disaster would become the greatest single loss of life at sea from a single ship in U.S. Navy history. The scale, shock and tragedy of the story served as inspiration for several blockbuster movies including Jaws and USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage starring Nicholas Cage. Shark Terror: USS Indianapolis is produced by Hoff Productions.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Luke Perry” Premieres on Sunday, July 11 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT. On March 4, 2019 Luke Perry died after suffering a massive and unexpected stroke. He was just 52 years old. Born in Mansfield Ohio Perry learned to appreciate the simple things in life but his desire to escape small town living took him to California where after years scraping by for a living Perry hit the big time when he landed the role of bad boy Dylan McKay in the hit TV series Beverly Hills, 90210. Idolized by millions around the world Perry never succumbed to his celebrity status. A humble, generous and talented actor who lived a quiet family life Perry was far from a ‘live hard, die young’ superstar cliché. Forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter uses Perry’s death certificate, first-hand accounts of his life and new medical research to uncover the mystery behind what may have caused the catastrophic stroke that killed this seemingly healthy and active 52-year-old star. Sharing their personal stories of Perry are colleagues and friends Dean Winters, OZ creator Tom Fontana, Smallville director Alexandra La Roche and his former agent Chris Nassif. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Kate Spade” Premieres on Sunday, July 11 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. A Kate Spade handbag has been one of the world’s most desired fashion accessories. Spade was the fun-loving and exuberant fashion journalist who created an international fashion empire. Despite no formal design training she mocked up her first handbags from tracing paper. Then she and husband Andy took those designs and created a fledgling business which grew from their small Manhattan apartment to stores and offices worldwide. They expanded from handbags to shoes, women’s wear, accessories and stationary. In 2006 they sold the company and settled down to have a family before launching a new fashion company but all along Spade was nursing a secret. She was prone to severe anxiety and depression. Her mental health deteriorated to the point that she took her own life on June 6, 2018 at just 55 years old. Now renowned medical examiner and forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter investigates the mystery of Spade’s mental health and if there was anything in her medical history that could have prevented her tragic suicide. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Amy Fisher: Kill for Me Premieres on Thursday, July 15 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. The affair between 16-year-old Amy Fisher and the married 35-year-old Joey Buttafuoco was one of the most infamous scandals in modern history. After Buttafuoco’s wife, Mary Jo, was shot in the head by Fisher in an attempt to end their marriage authorities stepped in and the media latched onto the story. Everyone involved had conflicting accounts of what actually happened. Fisher claimed it was an accident. Mary Jo said Fisher was lying and meant to kill her. Joey denied everything. Now in Amy Fisher: Kill for Me former Fisher friend Steven Sleeman speaks out about his first-hand experience. He disputes Fisher’s version of events and discusses his involvement that at one point included firing shots into the Buttafuoco home. Sleeman agreed to kill Mary Jo after striking a deal with Fisher for payment in sex. Sleeman’s personal insights shed new light on many of the well-known aspects of the scandal from Joey’s denial of the affair to Fisher’s portrayal of being an innocent girl led astray by an older man. Also sharing their experiences of the case are former Nassau County District prosecutor Fred Klein and Fisher’s defense attorney Eric Naiburg. Amy Fisher: Kill for Me is produced by AMS Pictures.

Susan Smith: Sex Behind Bars Premieres on Thursday, July 15 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. In 1994 Susan Smith was sentenced to life in prison for murdering her two young children. In the days after Smith lied claiming she was carjacked which led authorities on a fruitless hunt for a perpetrator that stirred up the quiet community of Union South Carolina. In a bombshell confession, Smith revealed her crimes and in the subsequent trail prosecutors believed the reason she killed her sons was because she was in love with a man who didn’t want children. During the trial Smith’s personal history was laid bare including being sexually assaulted as a child by her stepfather, with whom she would continue a sexual relationship with as an adult, and her numerous suicide attempts. Despite being locked behind bars Smith’s insidious nature revealed itself again on several occasions as she attempted to get a prison transfer. Two prison guards have since been convicted of having sex with her behind bars. Susan Smith: Sex Behind Bars features an interview with former prison guard captain Alfred Rowe discussing what led to his illegal conduct with Smith, why he believes Smith seduced him for her own personal gain and how their relationship almost destroyed his life. Susan Smith: Sex Behind Bars is produced by AMS Pictures.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Steve Irwin” Premieres on Sunday, July 18 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT. On September 4, 2006 Australian zookeeper and wildlife expert Steve Irwin was tragically killed while filming an underwater documentary on the Great Barrier Reef. Irwin had earned global notoriety as the Crocodile Hunter with unrivaled exuberance and physicality handling deadly snakes, toxic reptiles and apex predators on programs watched by hundreds of millions worldwide. But the world was shocked to learn that at the age of just 44 the seemingly invincible conservationist had been killed by a stingray which are not known for being aggressive or dangerous. Now, renowned forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter is investigating what led one of the world’s most iconic wildlife experts to be killed by an otherwise docile animal. By 2006 Irwin had spent more than 30 years working closely with the most dangerous predators in the world so was there something in Irwin’s health or lifestyle that could have possibly played a role in his untimely demise? Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Roy Horn” Premieres on Sunday, July 18 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. On May 8, 2020 the entertainment world was rocked by the news that legendary illusionist Roy Horn had succumbed to complications after contracting COVID-19. As one half of world renowned Siegfried and Roy he was the animal tamer who helped reinvent the magic act as a billion-dollar spectacle. It was during a traumatic childhood in post-war Germany that Roy developed a unique ability to work with animals. In partnership with budding magician Siegfried he took his talent to the stage and the pair developed a live act that starred cheetahs, lions and tigers. They went from touring the clubs of Europe to scoring their own headline residency as the hottest act in Las Vegas going on to perform more than 30,000 shows becoming one of the most successful live performances of all time and in 2000 were named Magicians of the Century. But in 2003 tragedy struck when Roy was mauled onstage and almost killed by a tiger. He was left partially paralyzed but his strength to survive and recover from the incident was heralded as miraculous. Years later at the age of 75 he died from complications with COVID-19. It’s a highly contagious disease but has a low mortality rate with 94% of those who’ve died from it having at least one other pre-existing health condition. So what made Horn’s infection turn fatal? Renowned forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter analyzes every detail of Horn’s available medical history to piece together what else was going on inside his body to find the answers. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Leonard Nimoy” Premieres on Sunday, July 25 at 8pm ET/ 5pm PT. On February 27, 2015 Leonard Nimoy known for his iconic role as the half-human, half-Vulcan alien character Spock in Star Trek died of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at the age of 83. Born in Boston’s West End when Nimoy was 17 years old he went against his parents’ wishes and pursued an acting career. Over the next 16 years while supporting his young family he became the ultimate bit-part actor mostly playing tough guys but in 1966 an opportunity came on a new show called Star Trek. With an insatiable drive to succeed Nimoy put everything he had into the character of Spock. Over the next two decades he worked at a blistering pace taking on producing and directing duties in addition to acting much to the detriment of his family life and especially his health. Along the way Nimoy picked up a few vices to cope with his stress resorting to smoking cigarettes and eventually heavy drinking after long taping days. Nimoy developed COPD which is known as a smoker’s disease but he quit smoking 30 years before he died so were there other contributing factors to his death? Renowned pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter uses first-hand accounts of Nimoy’s life to find the truth behind the character traits and lifestyle choices that ultimately caused the global pop culture figure’s death. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

Autopsy: The Last Hours of… “Verne Troyer” Premieres on Sunday, July 25 at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT. Verne Troyer was the massively popular diminutive star who played Dr. Evil’s pint-sized sidekick Mini-Me in the hugely successful Austin Powers movie franchise. His death at just 49 years old was ruled as a suicide attributed to excessive alcohol intoxication but was his death really a suicide or a tragic accident? At 2’8″ tall Troyer was born with the rare genetic condition cartilage-hair hypoplasia disorder of bone growth characterized by short stature dwarfism which can include painful skeletal abnormalities, immunodeficiency and a predisposition to cancer. In addition to physical pain from his condition Troyer also battled with depression despite his immense popularity as Mini-Me which saw him living a party lifestyle that included becoming a regular at the Playboy mansion. But after the buzz of the Austin Powers movies faded so did Troyer’s career despite his efforts to take on more serious roles. In managing his physical pain, depression demons and dwindling fame Troyer’s heavy drinking spiraled into suicidal behavior with calls to 911 wanting to end his life. But now renowned forensic pathologist and medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter investigates the medical evidence surrounding Troyer’s case and uncovers some startling revelations that could flip the suicide ruling on its head. Autopsy: The Last Hours of… is produced by Potato, part of ITV Studios.

About REELZ – REAL LIVES. REAL STORIES. REAL CELEBRITIES.(R)

REELZ is a leading independent cable and satellite general entertainment network focused on celebrity culture with poignant stories about Hollywood in revealing documentaries and character profiles of the famous and infamous. Programming ranges from the critically acclaimed and award-winning The Kennedys to Real Story of… revealing the true stories behind hit movies including American Made and Selena. Along with shows about movies, fame and celebrity lifestyles the network is also home to true crime stories and Autopsy: The Last Hours of… which examines the final days of popular celebrities from Lucille Ball to Prince.

REELZ is available in 70 million homes on DIRECTV channel 238, DISH Network channel 299, Verizon FiOS TV channel 692HD, AT&T U-verse channels 799/1799HD and cable systems nationwide. Find REELZ in your area by visiting www.reelz.com. REELZ is a High-Definition network and if it is not available, or not in HD, on your cable or telco provider, we encourage viewers to call them and ask for it. Owned by Hubbard Media Group, REELZ is headquartered in Albuquerque, NM with national ad sales based in New York City with offices in Boston and Chicago. As one of the last truly independent television networks remaining in today’s media landscape REELZ has created the Independence Happens Here(R) website to help keep free thought and innovation alive by highlighting the importance of independent businesses. The website can be found at http://IndependenceHappensHere.com.