Frontline Season 16 Episode 13 Inside the Tobacco Deal

Inside the Tobacco Deal is the 13th episode of the 16th season of the critically acclaimed PBS investigative series, Frontline. This hour-long episode explores the controversial and secretive $246 billion settlement that was reached between the major tobacco companies and the state attorneys general in 1998 and the impact it had on the tobacco industry and public health.

The episode begins by examining the history of the tobacco industry, including their attempts to deny the link between smoking and cancer, and their efforts to target children and youth with their advertising campaigns. It then delves into the legal battles that were waged against the tobacco companies in the 1990s, culminating in the historic settlement of 1998. Through interviews with key players in the settlement negotiations, including former Mississippi Attorney General Mike Moore and former tobacco industry insider Victor Crawford, viewers gain a behind-the-scenes look at the intense and complex negotiations that took place.

The episode also explores the aftermath of the settlement, examining the ways in which it changed the tobacco industry and the way in which companies market their products. It discusses the creation of new regulations and oversight agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration's ability to regulate tobacco products, and the increased focus on preventing youth smoking. Additionally, the episode explores the ways in which the settlement funds have been allocated by the states, including the controversy over how much money has been spent on tobacco prevention programs versus other projects.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to a number of individuals who have been affected by smoking-related illnesses, including lung cancer and emphysema. Through their stories, viewers gain a greater understanding of the devastating impact that smoking has had on individuals and families across the country.

Inside the Tobacco Deal is a thought-provoking and in-depth exploration of one of the most significant legal settlements in American history. Through powerful interviews and a careful examination of the facts, this episode of Frontline sheds new light on the ways in which the tobacco industry has operated, the legal battles that have been fought, and the impact that the settlement has had on public health and the lives of those affected by smoking-related illnesses.