Ep 6. The Scandalous Murder of William Desmond Taylor

BuzzFeed Unsolved: True Crime is a gripping documentary series that delves deep into some of the most perplexing unsolved mysteries and crimes of our time. In season 3, episode 6, entitled "The Scandalous Murder of William Desmond Taylor," Ryan Bergara and Shane Madej set out to unravel the secrets surrounding the shocking and scandalous murder that rocked Hollywood in the 1920s.

The episode begins by whisking us back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, where the silver screen was abuzz with glamour and scandal. The central figure of this episode, William Desmond Taylor, was one of the era's most prominent film directors. Known for his talent, charm, and integrity, Taylor was highly respected within the industry.

However, on the fateful night of February 1, 1922, Taylor's life was cut short in a manner that shocked and captivated the entire nation. In his Los Angeles bungalow, Taylor was found dead with a bullet wound to his back. The circumstances surrounding his murder were both mysterious and scandalous, making it a perfect case for Ryan and Shane to explore.

As the episode progresses, our hosts delve into the complex web of potential suspects. They carefully examine the testimonies of those closest to Taylor, including his housemaid, butler, and friends. Each person brings forth a new layer of intrigue and their own possible motives for the crime. From financial problems to love affairs, the suspects provide a multitude of reasons that could have driven someone to commit murder.

Ryan and Shane also uncover fascinating details about Taylor's personal life, including secret love affairs and a checkered past. They explore the dark side of Hollywood, where drug use and corruption lurked beneath the glamorous façade. These revelations shed light on the shadowy underbelly of the film industry at the time and offer potential explanations for the murder.

With their trademark banter and meticulous research, Ryan and Shane present a wide array of theories surrounding Taylor's murder. They examine different suspects, potential conspiracy theories, and even consider the possibility of a random act of violence. As the episode progresses, they narrow down the pool of suspects and present their compelling case for what they believe may have truly happened on that tragic night.

"The Scandalous Murder of William Desmond Taylor" is a true crime episode that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The combination of historical details, celebrity scandal, and captivating storytelling makes this episode an enthralling journey into the heart of a 1920s murder mystery. Whether you are a true crime enthusiast or simply enjoy solving a good puzzle, this episode will leave you eagerly awaiting the next twist and turn in the investigation.

As the episode draws to a close, Ryan and Shane summarize the key evidence, theories, and unanswered questions surrounding the murder. They leave viewers with lingering thoughts and the realization that some mysteries may never be solved. Despite the passage of nearly a century, the case of William Desmond Taylor remains unsolved, enigmatic, and entrenched in Hollywood lore.

BuzzFeed Unsolved: True Crime season 3, episode 6 serves as a captivating reminder of the enduring power of unsolved mysteries. Ryan Bergara and Shane Madej bring their unique combination of wit, skepticism, and curiosity to dig deep into this scandalous murder, seeking to shed light on a case that has fascinated the world for decades. So, sit back, grab a bowl of popcorn, and join Ryan and Shane as they unravel "The Scandalous Murder of William Desmond Taylor."