20/20 Season 42 Episode 4 The Death of a Playmate: The Dorothy Stratten Story

In this episode of ABC 20/20, season 42, episode 4 entitled "The Death of a Playmate: The Dorothy Stratten Story", viewers are taken on a journey through the life of Playboy Playmate Dorothy Stratten and her tragic death at the hands of her estranged husband, Paul Snider.

The episode begins with a look into Stratten's early life in Vancouver, Canada, where she first caught the eye of Snider while working as a part-time waitress at a local Dairy Queen. Snider saw potential in Stratten and convinced her to pursue a career in modeling, eventually leading her to the doors of Playboy magazine.

As Stratten's career began to take off, Snider became increasingly jealous and controlling, often pressuring her into poses and scenes she was uncomfortable with. The episode explores the power dynamics between the couple, which ultimately led to their separation and Stratten's rise to fame as the 1980 Playboy Playmate of the Year.

However, just months after being crowned Playmate of the Year, Stratten was brutally and senselessly murdered by Snider in their Los Angeles home, a few months shy of her 21st birthday.

The episode delves into the investigation surrounding Stratten's death, with interviews and accounts from those closest to her as well as investigators and lawyers who worked on the case. It also explores the broader cultural implications of Stratten's life and tragic death, including the gender politics and exploitation inherent in the Playboy empire during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to archival footage and photos of Stratten, as well as clips from her appearances on films such as "They All Laughed" and "Galaxie". The episode does not shy away from the darker aspects of Stratten's life, including the sexual abuse she experienced as a child and her struggles with depression and anxiety.

Overall, "The Death of a Playmate: The Dorothy Stratten Story" is a powerful and poignant exploration of the life and legacy of one of Playboy's most iconic figures. It provides a fresh perspective on her untimely death, while also highlighting the darker side of the entertainment industry and the ongoing struggle for women's rights and representation.