The MTV Documentary Films documentary “Predators” is currently streaming on Paramount+, showcasing a detailed examination of the rise and eventual decline of “To Catch a Predator,” the controversial segment that aired on Dateline NBC from 2004 to 2007. Former host Chris Hansen is prominently featured in the latter part of this exposé, reflecting on the show’s impact and the ethical implications surrounding its production.
Chris Hansen’s career in journalism began during his college years at Michigan State University, leading to a role as a correspondent for NBC News starting in 1993. His tenure with NBC spanned over two decades before the network chose to part ways with him in 2013. Following his departure, Hansen has continued to evolve in the true crime genre, launching the streaming service TruBlu in 2020, where he also hosts “Takedown With Chris Hansen.” This new series mirrors his previous work, as he investigates and interviews online predators. Hansen also shares his experiences and insights through his podcast titled “Predators I’ve Caught.”
Recently, in August 2025, Hansen announced he is working on a documentary that explores the gaming platform Roblox and its potential connection to predators targeting young children. Prior to expanding his platform with TruBlu, he also hosted “Killer Instinct” on Investigation Discovery in 2015 and contributed to “Crime Watch Daily,” where he revived “To Catch a Predator” under the title “Hansen vs. Predator.”
On a personal note, Hansen married Gabrielle Gagnon in November 2021, a new chapter following his divorce from his first wife, Mary Joan Hansen, which was finalized in 2020. Together, they blend their families, as Hansen has two sons from his first marriage and is a stepfather to Gagnon’s adult children.
The cancellation of “To Catch a Predator” remains a point of contention. In interviews, Hansen has maintained that the show ended because it had fulfilled its mission. However, the tragic suicide of a district attorney during a sting operation in 2006 raised significant questions about the show’s ethics and the balance between sensationalism and accountability in reporting. The aftermath of this incident led to a lawsuit against NBC that was ultimately settled out of court.
“Predators,” now available for streaming, invites viewers to reexamine these poignant issues surrounding the pursuit of justice and the treatment of sensitive subjects in media. If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it’s essential to reach out for help, and various resources are available for support.