Ep 1. Deadly God Complex

License to Kill is a true-crime series that features the stories of doctors, nurses, and medical professionals who use their medical knowledge and expertise to commit foul play. The show’s first episode, ‘Deadly God Complex,’ delves into the case of Dr. Christopher Duntsch, a neurosurgeon from Texas who left a trail of devastation in his wake.

From the beginning, Dr. Duntsch seemed to have all the markings of a successful neurosurgeon. He was young, handsome, and charismatic, with an impressive educational background and a long list of glowing references. But as his patients started to suffer catastrophic injuries and even die on the operating table, it became clear that something was seriously wrong.

The episode begins with the story of Jerry Summers, a Dallas resident who suffered from chronic back pain and hoped that Dr. Duntsch could help. After his initial consultation with the doctor, Jerry was excited to go under the knife and finally find relief. But what followed was a nightmare of pain, disability, and confusion.

Jerry is just one of the many patients that Dr. Duntsch maimed or killed during his time as a surgeon. The episode outlines the case of Mary Efurd, another victim who found herself paralyzed from the neck down after a botched spinal surgery. When Mary’s family tried to complain to the medical board, they were met with resistance and disbelief.

As the details of Duntsch’s career become clear, the audience learns that Jerry and Mary’s stories are just the tip of the iceberg. Duntsch had a pattern of reckless behavior, including taking drugs before and during surgeries and disregarding basic safety protocols. Many of his colleagues and peers tried to warn hospital administrators about his dangerous tendencies, but no action was taken until it was too late.

One of the most shocking aspects of the case is the extent to which Duntsch’s career was protected by what some called a ‘good old boy’ network. The episode explores the ways in which medical professionals are often hesitant to report their colleagues’ mistakes or malpractice due to fears of retaliation or damage to their own careers. This reluctance to speak up allowed Duntsch to continue operating on patients long after he should have been stopped.

Through interviews with victims, their families, and legal experts, the episode paints a picture of a healthcare system that often prioritizes protecting its own above holding bad actors accountable. It also raises important questions about the role of regulation and accountability in the medical field, given the high stakes and potential for serious harm.

Overall, License to Kill’s ‘Deadly God Complex’ is a gripping and emotional exploration of the aftermath of Dr. Duntsch’s crimes. The show serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical conduct in healthcare and the responsibility that doctors have to their patients. It’s a must-watch for fans of true-crime stories and anyone interested in the intersection of medicine and the law.