Ep 8. Patty Hearst

In season 2 episode 8 of Scandal Made Me Famous, viewers are taken on a thrilling ride through the scandalous life of Patty Hearst. The episode delves into the events that led up to Hearst's infamous kidnapping and subsequent conversion to the Symbionese Liberation Army, a left-wing revolutionary group.

The episode begins by chronicling Hearst's privileged upbringing as the granddaughter of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. However, her seemingly perfect life was shattered when she was kidnapped by the SLA in 1974. The group demanded a ransom of $6 million for Hearst's safe return, but after several unsuccessful attempts by law enforcement to rescue her, Hearst stunned the nation when she announced that she had joined her captors.

The episode takes a deep dive into Hearst's time with the SLA, during which she participated in several criminal activities, including bank robberies and bombings. Viewers are given rare insight into the psychology behind Hearst's decision to align herself with the radical group, with experts weighing in on the concept of Stockholm syndrome and whether it applied in her case.

Throughout the episode, viewers are also given a window into the media frenzy that surrounded Hearst's kidnapping and radicalization. News footage from the time shows how the story dominated the airwaves, with pundits and journalists alike weighing in on the significance of Hearst's actions.

As the episode progresses, viewers are shown the eventual resolution of Hearst's story. After months on the run with the SLA, Hearst was eventually apprehended and charged with several criminal offenses. However, her time in captivity and her subsequent experiences with the SLA resulted in a trial that was unlike any before it.

The episode takes a look at the legal battle that ensued, including the prosecution's attempts to paint Hearst as an active participant in the SLA's crimes, and the defense's assertion that she was a victim of brainwashing. Viewers are given rare access to courtroom footage and interviews with legal experts who provide valuable insights into the trial's outcome.

Overall, season 2 episode 8 of Scandal Made Me Famous is a gripping and informative exploration of one of the most sensational scandals of the 20th century. Viewers are given a well-rounded perspective on Hearst's story, with expert commentary and rare footage bringing the events to life in vivid detail. Whether you're a true crime buff or simply someone interested in exploring the human psyche, this episode is not to be missed.