Watch Truth and Lies: The Family Manson

Truth and Lies: The Family Manson is a two-hour documentary that explores the dark history of the Charles Manson family, the infamous cult that terrorized Los Angeles in the 1960s. Produced by ABC News, the show premiered on March 17, 2019, and is hosted by ABC News correspondent Deborah Roberts.

The documentary features never-before-seen interviews with former members of the Manson family, as well as friends and relatives of the victims. It also includes rare archival footage and recordings of interviews with Manson himself. From the early days of the cult to the grisly murders that shocked the nation, the show covers every aspect of the Manson family's brutal reign of terror.

The documentary begins with a brief history of Manson's early life and the circumstances that led him to form his cult. It then delves into the inner workings of the family and how Manson manipulated and brainwashed his followers into committing horrific crimes. The show also examines Manson's bizarre belief that the murders were part of a race war, which he hoped would bring about a new order in society.

Throughout the documentary, viewers will hear from former members of the family, such as Catherine "Gypsy" Share, who played a key role in the murders of actress Sharon Tate and her friends. Other Manson family members who were interviewed include Dianne Lake, who joined the cult when she was just 14 years old, and Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme, who attempted to assassinate President Gerald Ford in 1975.

The show also features interviews with relatives of the victims, including Debra Tate, Sharon Tate's sister, and Mary Brunner, the mother of Manson's first child. They share their memories of the victims and the impact the murders had on their lives.

In addition to the interviews, the documentary features rare archival footage and audio recordings of Manson's own words. This gives viewers a glimpse into the mind of one of the most infamous criminals in American history.

Throughout the show, experts weigh in on the factors that led to the rise of the Manson family, the psychology behind cults, and the legacy of the murders. These experts include Geoff Boucher, a Los Angeles Times reporter who has covered the Manson family extensively, and Lisa Van Houten, the daughter of Manson family member Leslie Van Houten, who is still serving a life sentence for her role in the murders.

Overall, Truth and Lies: The Family Manson is a compelling and chilling look at one of the most notorious crimes in American history. With its in-depth interviews, rare footage, and expert analysis, the documentary offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the Manson family and its gruesome legacy.

Truth and Lies: The Family Manson is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (1 episodes). The series first aired on March 17, 2017.