Ep 40. Rat Pack, Pt. 2

In the second part of the Rat Pack Biography Special, viewers get an in-depth look at the lives of the legendary members of the Rat Pack, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. The episode begins with the struggles faced by Sammy Davis Jr. both in his personal life and in the segregated world of entertainment in the 1950s. Through interviews with friends and family, viewers learn about Davis' determination to succeed in the face of racism, and how he eventually became a beloved member of the Rat Pack.

The episode also explores the complicated relationship between Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Despite their on-stage chemistry and close friendship, the two had very different personalities, with Sinatra often being more intense and serious while Martin was the laid-back and carefree one. Despite these differences, the two remained close until Martin's death in 1995.

Viewers also get to learn more about the lesser-known members of the Rat Pack, including Peter Lawford and Joey Bishop. Lawford, who was married to Patricia Kennedy (sister of John F. Kennedy), was a charming and talented actor and singer, but had a reputation for being unreliable and difficult to work with. Bishop, who was known for his comedic timing, was often overshadowed by the other members of the Rat Pack but had a successful career in his own right.

One of the highlights of the episode is the exploration of the Rat Pack's infamous connections to organized crime. While Sinatra vehemently denied any involvement with the mob, he was known to be friends with many of its members, and some of his concerts were funded by organized crime figures. The episode also delves into the infamous "Summit at the Sands," a performance by the Rat Pack in Las Vegas that was attended by many high-profile members of the mafia.

Overall, the Rat Pack Biography Special provides a fascinating look at one of the most iconic groups of entertainers in history. Through rare footage, exclusive interviews, and expert analysis, viewers get a sense of what it was like to be a part of the Rat Pack, and how these legendary performers helped shape the music and entertainment industry for generations to come.