Ep 6. The Vampire Gigolo

Australian Crime Stories season 3 episode 6, titled "The Vampire Gigolo," delves into the grisly and perplexing case of Shane Chartres-Abbott, a male sex worker and self-professed vampire, who was murdered in Melbourne in 2003. Chartres-Abbott attracted a clientele of wealthy, powerful and often dangerous individuals who paid him for services ranging from BDSM to blood-drinking fantasies. The show explores Chartres-Abbott's life, from his troubled upbringing to his lucrative, but dangerous line of work, and the events that led to his shocking murder.

The episode features interviews with Chartres-Abbott's former clients, friends, and family members, as well as police investigators and journalists who covered the case. The show pieces together the events leading up to his death and investigates the many theories that have emerged in the years since.

The first half of the episode provides insight into Chartres-Abbott's life, tracing his journey from a rough childhood in a small town in New Zealand to his career as a sex worker in Melbourne. The show is careful to avoid sensationalism while still providing details about Chartres-Abbott's unique line of work and the types of clients he attracted. The interviews with his peers offer a balanced view of Chartres-Abbott, portraying him as both enigmatic and troubled.

The second half of the episode focuses on the investigation into Chartres-Abbott's murder. With no shortage of suspects, including clients who had been threatened by Chartres-Abbott, a fellow sex worker with a grudge, and a former prison mate, the case proved to be one of the most complex in Melbourne's history. The show details the extensive police investigation and the court case that followed.

The episode is expertly crafted, with careful attention paid to the facts while still maintaining a compelling narrative arc. The interviews are thoughtfully conducted and provide valuable insight into Chartres-Abbott's life, his work, and the many individuals who surrounded him. The show is sensitive to the topic of sex work and treats all parties involved with dignity and respect.

Overall, "The Vampire Gigolo" is a fascinating and thought-provoking episode that sheds light on a rarely explored aspect of Melbourne's criminal underworld. The show is a testament to the skilled storytelling of the Australian Crime Stories team and is sure to be of interest to true crime enthusiasts around the world.