“IMPACT x Nightline: Evil: Manson Killers Freed?” is set to stream on Disney+ and Hulu starting Thursday, October 16. This thought-provoking episode revisits the infamous Manson Family cult, notorious for the brutal murders of seven individuals, including actress Sharon Tate in 1969. With one cult member already released and another, 77-year-old Patricia Krenwinkel, recommended for parole, the episode questions the implications of their potential freedom.
The program, led by ABC News chief national correspondent Matt Gutman, features interviews with prominent figures including Debra Tate, sister of Sharon Tate, who continues to vehemently oppose parole for any of the killers, citing the lasting impact of their crimes on victims’ families. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman also weighs in on the legal ramifications of releasing these individuals, emphasizing public safety.
The episode incorporates rare archival footage from ABC News, including Diane Sawyer’s pivotal 1994 interviews with Charles Manson and his followers, which shed light on Manson’s powerful influence over his followers and the psychological dynamics that led them into a life of violence.
In addition to these insights, a range of experts, including former federal prosecutor Sunny Hostin and author Tom O’Neil, provide analysis on the ongoing debate about the Manson Family’s legacy and what freedom for its members would mean for society.
“IMPACT x Nightline” continues to explore pressing cultural issues and complex narratives, aiming to engage viewers in conversations about morality, justice, and the consequences of past actions. The episode promises to be a gripping examination of one of the most infamous cults in American history and the ongoing debate surrounding the pursuit of justice and forgiveness.