A First Look at the Docuseries “The Wonderland Massacre & The Secret History of Hollywood”

Bestselling author Michael Connelly delves into one of Hollywood’s most notorious crimes in his upcoming docuseries, “The Wonderland Massacre & The Secret History of Hollywood.” The four-part series takes viewers on a gripping journey into the heart of the Wonderland massacre, a gruesome quadruple homicide that shocked the world in 1981. Today, we have the first look at this chilling docuseries.

As a former crime beat reporter for the Los Angeles Times, Connelly brings a unique perspective to this infamous case. He conducts in-depth interviews with original detectives, prosecutors, and undercover cops. The series paints a vivid picture of the era’s seedy underbelly through their firsthand accounts and rare archival footage. And explores the crime that intertwines sex, drugs, rock ‘n’ roll, and murder.

The Wonderland murders remain one of Los Angeles’ most notorious unsolved crimes. The massacre saw four members of the Wonderland Gang brutally murdered on July 1, 1981, bludgeoned to death with hammers and pipes in a scene of horrific violence in their Laurel Canyon home. The crime is believed to be linked to a robbery committed against drug kingpin Eddie Nash just two days prior. There was a suspect, porn star John Holmes. However, he was eventually acquitted. Decades later, the case continues to captivate the public, and the killers elude justice.

Central to the investigation is the enigmatic figure of Scott Thorson, Liberace’s former lover. Connelly unravels the truth behind Thorson’s conflicting stories. He also questions whether he holds the key to unlocking the mystery of the Wonderland murders.

The upcoming series, directed by Alison Ellwood (San Francisco Sounds, Laurel Canyon), is based on Connelly’s hit Audible podcast series.

With its noir-style storytelling and a cast of characters straight out of a crime thriller, “The Wonderland Massacre & The Secret History of Hollywood” promises to be a must-watch for true crime fans and those fascinated by the entertainment industry’s dark side. It premieres on MGM+ on September 8, 2024.