Ep 28. Savile

Louis Theroux is a British television presenter who is famous for his documentaries and investigations into some of the most bizarre and controversial subjects in our society. In the first season of his show, Louis Theroux takes a deep dive into the life and alleged crimes of one of Britain's most notorious celebrities, Jimmy Savile.

The episode titled "Savile" is a compelling and revealing look into the world of the late television presenter and charity worker, who was later discovered to have sexually abused hundreds of young people over a period of several decades. Louis Theroux is on the hunt for answers about Savile's life, his legacy, and the shocking allegations of abuse that have rocked the entertainment industry and beyond.

Louis Theroux begins this episode on a personal note - he himself briefly met Savile in the past and was friendly with him. However, Louis is aware that he needs to approach the subject with objectivity and impartiality, and thus makes sure to conduct his investigation in a thorough and sensitive manner.

The show then proceeds to explore various aspects of Savile's life, starting with his work as a fundraising machine for various charities. Louis takes a deep dive into the intricate network of people, organizations, and relationships that made up Savile's world. He meets with many of Savile's former colleagues, friends, and relatives, who all have varying opinions on the man and his legacy.

One of the most compelling parts of the episode is Louis's interview with some of Savile's victims. Through their stories, we learn about the awful abuse that Savile inflicted upon them, and the long-lasting trauma that they continue to suffer from. Although difficult to watch at times, these testimonies provide an essential insight into the scale and severity of Savile's crimes.

Louis also explores the extent to which those in the entertainment industry and the media were aware of Savile's behavior, and how they failed to act upon concerns or allegations for decades. Key figures from the BBC and other institutions that worked alongside Savile are interviewed, revealing their own feelings of regret and complicity.

Overall, "Savile" is a fascinating and enlightening episode of Louis Theroux's show. It provides a comprehensive view of one of Britain's biggest scandals, highlighting the failures of the institutions that allowed this abuse to take place, as well as the devastating impact on the victims. Louis himself delivers the investigation in his trademark style, offering an insightful and empathetic perspective that avoids sensationalism.