Mon. Mar 30th, 2026

M. Gessen Explores Disturbing Family Saga in New Serial Productions Podcast

New York Times columnist M. Gessen steps into the role of reporter and host for a gripping five-part podcast series, produced under the acclaimed NYT/Serial Productions banner. This latest offering brings to mind the captivating true-crime storytelling of previous successes such as We Were Three and S-Town.

Gessen delves into the unsettling, “wild truth” surrounding his own cousin, Allen – an individual he describes as an “idiot” and a braggart with a disturbing pattern of repeatedly kidnapping his own son. The narrative takes a dark turn as Allen faces severe charges for allegedly orchestrating a murder plot against his ex-wife, Priscilla.

This deeply personal and astonishing family drama explores the chilling question of how closely danger can lurk within one’s own kin. The series, featuring weekly episodes, is now widely available.

By Hannah J Davies

By Rupert Blackwood

Investigative journalist based in Sheffield, focusing on technology's impact on society. Rupert specializes in cybercrime's effect on communities, from online fraud targeting elderly residents to cryptocurrency scams. His reporting examines social media manipulation, digital surveillance, and how criminal networks operate in cyberspace. With expertise in computer systems, he connects technical complexity with real-world consequences for ordinary people

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