Impact X Nightline

“IMPACT x Nightline” delves into the complex and haunting story of Sebastián Marroquín, the son of infamous cocaine kingpin Pablo Escobar, whose childhood was shaped by extraordinary wealth, constant danger, and the ever-present influence of his father’s criminal empire. From growing up surrounded by hitmen, known as sicarios, who served as his teachers, protectors and surrogate family, to grappling with the moral contradictions of love and fear inside one of the most notorious families in history, Marroquín shares the emotional toll of living in Escobar’s shadow. As the new Hulu series “Dear Killer Nannies,” starring John Leguizamo, brings this world to life, “IMPACT x Nightline” examines the blurred lines between family loyalty and accountability, and how a son reckons with a legacy that continues to captivate — and horrify — the world.

“IMPACT x Nightline” explores the extraordinary journey of Fernando Mendoza, the breakout college football star, whose popularity has transcended sports, as he wills his way from overlooked underdog to undeniable champion. From his beginnings in Miami, Florida, and his unbreakable bond with his mother, who is battling multiple sclerosis, to the biggest stage in a young football player’s life — the NFL draft. After leading the Indiana Hoosiers to a remarkable undefeated season, culminating in a national championship win and a Heisman Trophy, Mendoza takes his victory lap as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft. But will he live up to the hype? “IMPACT x Nightline” dives into his compelling story and explores what’s next for this rising star.

“IMPACT x Nightline: LOOKSMAXXED” dives into the shadowy and rapidly growing world of looksmaxxing, a controversial online movement where young men sometimes pursue extreme measures to transform their appearance in the hope of achieving success, confidence and validation. What begins as self-improvement often spirals into a high-stakes pursuit shaped by rigid beauty standards, social media pressure, and an algorithm-fueled echo chamber. Through firsthand accounts from “looksmaxxers,” experts and cultural commentators, the episode unpacks the motivations driving this trend, from loneliness and rejection to the promise of control in an increasingly image-obsessed culture. As the line between self-love and self-destruction begins to blur, some turn to costly procedures, punishing routines, and unproven methods in pursuit of an ideal that may be impossible to reach. “IMPACT x Nightline” explores the psychological toll, cultural forces and real-world consequences behind the quest for perfection, raising a pressing question: When does the pursuit of becoming your best self become something far more dangerous?

“IMPACT x Nightline: The Monster at the Beach” unravels the decades-long mystery of bodies discovered along the quiet shores of Long Island, where a string of killings shattered the illusion of a peaceful coastal community. As investigators race to connect the victims — many of whom vanished without a trace — the case grows into one of the most haunting serial killer hunts in recent history. Authorities and insiders reveal how advances in technology, relentless police work, and long-overlooked clues ultimately led to Rex Heuermann, an architect whose double life hid in plain sight. Now, after pleading guilty to the murders of eight women, those closest to the case reflect on the victims, the investigation’s turning points, and the chilling reality of a predator who evaded capture for years. As the full scope of the crimes comes into focus, one question remains: Is the story of the Gilgo Beach killings truly complete?

“IMPACT x Nightline: Terror on the Trails” dives into the Trailside Killer story, who hunted women and couples in the woods, and the clues investigators chased to crack the case. Actress Lisa Rinna shares how her mother, Lois DeAndrade, survived a brutal attack; John Alderson returns to the trail where his sister Anne spent her final moments doing what she loved; retired Marin County public defender Jay Ruskin looks back on his time defending the Trailside Killer David Carpenter in court; and Karen Kilroy remembers the moment she gave police a crucial piece of evidence. Decades after terrorizing the trails, could there still be more victims out there?

After a seemingly picture-perfect marriage between an anesthesiologist and a nuclear engineer shatters on a scenic trail in Hawaii, “IMPACT x Nightline” examines one of the state’s most harrowing cases. When two hikers discover the young wife bloodied and injured, the shocking incident sparks a high-stakes investigation — and a courtroom battle that raises more questions than answers. With her husband now on trial for attempted murder, the case hinges on a critical mystery: Was this a brutal, unprovoked attack fueled by jealousy or a violent encounter where she struck first? As both sides present starkly different versions of the events, “IMPACT x Nightline” explores the truth behind a marriage unraveled.

After Kouri Richins, a Utah mother, is accused of lacing her husband’s cocktail with a fatal dose of fentanyl, “IMPACT x Nightline” goes beyond the violent allegations to examine a case that has captivated the nation. What began as the sudden and unexplained death of her husband soon unraveled into a shocking investigation, with prosecutors alleging a calculated act hidden behind a carefully constructed façade of grief. A year after her husband’s death, Richins published a children’s book about coping with loss, raising chilling questions about timing, motive and intent. With her trial unfolding in front of the world—and reaching a shocking conclusion this week — “IMPACT x Nightline” explores whether this is a story of cold-blooded murder or reasonable doubt and what justice ultimately looks like.

After pop superstar Britney Spears is arrested on suspicion of DUI in Southern California, “IMPACT x Nightline” goes beyond the headlines to examine the reignited concern for one of music’s most scrutinized icons. Years after the highly publicized end of her conservatorship and the global #FreeBritney movement, the pop star’s life remains under an intense spotlight — her personal struggles, family tensions and fiercely guarded independence all colliding in real time. As fans, critics and insiders discuss whether this moment signals a setback or a turning point, “IMPACT x Nightline” explores the complicated reality behind the headlines: a cultural icon navigating freedom, fame and the pressure of living her life in public once again.

Spencer Pratt is stepping out from behind the villain mask that made him famous, insisting the chaos audiences saw on “The Hills” was all part of a carefully crafted act — and declaring that the real Spencer is ready for a new spotlight: a run for mayor of Los Angeles. Once one of reality TV’s most polarizing figures, a master of headline-grabbing feuds and unforgettable on-screen meltdowns, Pratt is pulling back the curtain on the wildest moments that defined an era. “IMPACT x Nightline” revisits the rise of reality television’s ultimate bad guy, the performance that blurred the line between fame and fiction, and the surprising political ambitions reshaping his next act: was it manipulation, method acting, or a misunderstood strategy from the start?

The repercussions of Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes are far-reaching, and as outrage grows over the British royal family’s ties to the sex offender through Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, the king’s disgraced brother, panic grows inside the palace walls. This week, “IMPACT x Nightline” talks to close family members of Virginia Giuffre, Andrew’s most prominent accuser, who share how Virginia’s strength to come forward helped to bring down the former prince. Now, with Andrew’s own words coming to light through the release of the Epstein email archives, pressure is mounting for the monarchy.

This week on “IMPACT x Nightline,” “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang sits down with Piper Rockelle, once one of YouTube’s most followed child content creators. Rockelle made headlines after launching an OnlyFans account shortly after her 18th birthday — allegedly earning more than $1 million in her first hour on the platform and nearly $3 million by the end of her first day. Rockelle reflects on her meteoric rise to fame as a kid influencer, the fallout from a 2022 lawsuit filed by former members of her online “Squad” against her mother and longtime manager, Tiffany Smith, and more. The episode offers exclusive access to Rockelle’s daily life, behind-the-scenes moments from her OnlyFans content, and interviews with her family, journalists and cultural commentators. It also examines broader questions surrounding child influencers, parental control and the lack of labor protections for minors in digital media.

“IMPACT x Nightline” delves into the shocking case of a former boy band member who became the target of a wild murder-for-hire plot allegedly orchestrated by his influencer ex-girlfriend and her father. As investigators unravel the twists and turns of a relationship gone wrong, the special explores the motives, evidence and dramatic allegations that led to criminal charges. Through interviews and a detailed examination of the case, “IMPACT x Nightline” reveals how a seemingly picture-perfect online romance spiraled into an extraordinary criminal investigation across multiple states.

“IMPACT X Nightline” goes inside the Beckham family drama. Last week, Brooklyn Beckham, the eldest son of former soccer superstar David Beckham and Spice Girl-turned-fashion designer Victoria Beckham, posted an explosive statement on Instagram, accusing his parents of attempting to sabotage his marriage and putting public branding over family, confirming a family feud that has been brewing for months. Brooklyn claims his mother bailed at the last minute on designing his wife’s wedding dress and “hijacked” the couple’s first dance. In this episode of “IMPACT x Nightline,” wedding insiders reveal what really happened on the dance floor and why Brooklyn says distancing himself from his family has brought him “peace and relief.”

In 1991, 25-year-old mother Cynthia Gonzalez was found brutally murdered on a desolate roadside outside of Dallas-Fort Worth. For 34 years, the case went cold, with no suspects and no arrests. Then, in a stunning twist, a group of college students at the University of Texas at Austin helped crack the case wide open. As part of an innovative criminology course, these students partnered with police to uncover what investigators describe as an alleged love triangle — one that may have led to Cynthia’s murder, with the other woman now at the center of the investigation.

In 1984, after a shift at a roller rink, 16-year-old Theresa Fusco went missing — her body later found beaten and naked. Forty years later, authorities believe they’ve found the suspect.

“IMPACT x Nightline” reports on the infamous NXIVM cult, founded by Keith Raniere and known for blackmailing, sexually abusing and manipulating women for over two decades. Now, “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang speaks with three former members of NXIVM after one of its top leaders, Allison Mack, was recently released from prison. Mack, once a rising Hollywood star, bares all in two podcasts, sharing her dark story of indoctrination and her role in recruiting and abusing other women. The episode explores how Mack grappled with the harm she inflicted and the psychological grip of cult leader Keith Raniere. Hear firsthand accounts from survivors and experts who unpack the mechanics of coercion and control inside NXIVM.

Should the Manson killers ever walk free? The infamous Manson cult is back in the headlines once again. Decades after Charles Manson and his followers brutally murdered seven people, 77-year-old Patricia Krenwinkel, one of the women convicted in the killings, has been recommended for parole. With cult member Leslie Van Houten already released, Krenwinkel hopes to be the second Manson family member to gain her freedom. “IMPACT x Nightline” speaks with Sharon Tate’s sister and reports on the controversy over whether any of the killers should be released, and if they are still a danger to society.

This week on “IMPACT x Nightline,” “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang sits down with GRAMMY Award-winning singer Ne-Yo to discuss his polyamorous lifestyle as he navigates his relationships with four girlfriends. The episode also features a Colorado throuple who share their polyamorous experience through a social media account called “Camp Throuple.” Finally, cameras are inside a poly speed dating event.

This week, “IMPACT x Nightline” explores the life and career of legendary musician Lionel Richie. “Good Morning America” co-anchor Robin Roberts sits down exclusively with Richie to talk about his new memoir, “Truly”; life growing up in Tuskegee, Alabama; his rise to fame with The Commodores and their painful breakup; his journey as a solo artist; and what he calls the scandal of his century. An inspiration across generations, Richie talks about enjoying time with his growing family and his role as a mentor on “American Idol.” As he reflects on the choices made throughout his career and personal life, he hopes to motivate others who doubt their dreams. ABC News Studios’ “IMPACT x Nightline: Truly Lionel Richie: A Conversation with Robin Roberts” now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.

In the competitive world of sorority rush, mothers and daughters may have a secret weapon: rush coaches. From the thousands of dollars spent to the pressure and heartbreak, from alpha to zeta, we go behind the scenes of what it takes to seek a bid.

Fresh out of federal lockup, Todd and Julie Chrisley sit down to tell all to “IMPACT x Nightline.” They detail their life behind bars and their surprise homecoming, while daughter Savannah sheds light on her fight for their presidential pardon.

Eric Dane, the beloved star of “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria,” speaks for the first time to Diane Sawyer about his ALS diagnosis. The charismatic star opens up about his health, family, work and future.

A look inside the harrowing 2016 robbery where Kim Kardashian was held at gunpoint in Paris. One of the robbers, a key investigator, and a victim who was inside Kim’s hotel room speak out for the first time.

The criminal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs has begun. Prosecutors allege he engaged in a dark underworld of sex trafficking, prostitution and more. The mogul denies all accusations, maintaining his innocence. “IMPACT x Nightline” goes inside the case.

The tragic story of Patsy Skiple, one of the Happy Face Killer’s Jane Doe victims, is finally uncovered decades after her disappearance. Skiple’s family and the Happy Face Killer’s daughter share the painful fallout of his crimes.

This week on “IMPACT x Nightline,” “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang reports on Russell Brand, an English comedian once married to Katy Perry who is criminally charged with two counts of sexual assault, two counts of rape and indecent assault in Great Britain in April of this year. Chang takes a deep dive into Brand’s troubled rise to fame with rarely seen photos and video, an exclusive interview with his past roommate, and footage from a past “Nightline” sit-down with Brand. Chang also speaks with the attorney who represents a female extra from the set of the 2011 remake of “Arthur” who filed a civil complaint against Brand in 2023. The extra, named “Jane Doe” in the lawsuit, alleges she was sexually assaulted on her first day on set. Brand denies all accusations against him and has said any encounters were consensual. Now, he has pivoted from his racy past persona to a religious right-wing influencer, popping up at massive republican events like the 2024 Republican National Convention and engaging with right-wing media personalities like Tucker Carlson and Ben Shapiro. If convicted by the UK. court, Brand could face life in prison.

This week, “IMPACT x Nightline” reports on the retrial of Karen Read, who is charged with the 2022 murder of her then-boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe. After a shocking deadlocked jury in Read’s first trial that took place in 2024, she is back in court as the second trial begins. ABC News sits down with those close to the case to learn more about what happened that snowy night.

This week, “IMPACT x Nightline” reports on the case of Lori Vallow Daybell, a married former beauty queen and mother who fell for Chad Daybell, a religious leader prepping for the end of the world. As the affair unfolded, their families started dying and disappearing, including two of Lori’s children, ages 7 and 16, who were killed in 2019. In 2023, Lori was found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder for killing her two youngest children, and now she is back on trial for the alleged murder of her estranged husband, Charles Vallow, but she maintains her innocence.

Tracy Anderson has been dubbed by many a “secret weapon” in Hollywood. Stars like Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Lopez and more turn to her famed fitness method, but it hasn’t been without controversy. “IMPACT x Nightline” goes behind the scenes.

Selena was one of the most celebrated entertainers of her generation, but her life was tragically cut short in 1995 at the age of 23. Now, 30 years after her tragic murder, could her killer be set free? “IMPACT x Nightline” investigates.

This week on “IMPACT x Nightline,” “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang sits down with Courtney Stodden, who married actor Doug Hutchison with her parents’ consent when she was 16 and he was 51. In 2011, “Nightline” had the first interview with Courtney and Doug as a married couple. At the time, she said that they were soulmates, but now, the two are divorced, and Stodden advocates against underage marriage, alleging she was groomed by Hutchison. Stodden shares the intimate details of her life, including losing her virginity to Hutchison on their wedding night, being a constant target for paparazzi and tabloids, the struggles she faced while trying to leave her first marriage, being cyberbullied by A-list celebrities, and the lasting effects of being a child bride.

Denise Richards is back in the spotlight. “IMPACT x Nightline” sits down with the actress and star of “Denise Richards & Her Wild Things” as she tells all about navigating Hollywood, motherhood and reclaiming her signature sexy image via OnlyFans.

“IMPACT x Nightline” reports on rare cases of IVF gone wrong, including a woman suing a fertility clinic after delivering a baby that wasn’t biologically hers and a family swapping babies with a nearby couple after an embryo mix-up.

An astonishing attack and an unbelievable motive: How did a sleepover end in attempted murder to please the fictional character Slender Man? “IMPACT x Nightline” unpacks the case after a new court ruling changes everything for one of the assailants.

This week, “IMPACT x Nightline” reports on Kaitlyn Conley. The 31-year-old former receptionist was convicted of manslaughter — but maintained her innocence — in the 2015 killing of Mary Yoder, her former boss and the mother of her ex-boyfriend. Earlier this month, a New York court overturned the conviction, allowing her to walk free. It is currently unknown if she will be retried. “IMPACT x Nightline” breaks down Conley’s case in new interviews and reporting, as well as footage from ABC News Studios’ 2024 docuseries “Little Miss Innocent: Passion. Poison. Prison.”

Wendy Williams has broken her silence on her guardianship, challenging her dementia diagnosis and pleading for her independence. “IMPACT x Nightline” speaks with Williams and dives deep into her case as her guardian calls for her to be reevaluated.

“IMPACT x Nightline” speaks to industry insiders about the ongoing feud between A-list rappers Kendrick Lamar and Drake, which triggered damning diss tracks and now a lawsuit. Who will reign supreme in this hip-hop battle for the ages?

With all the drama surrounding the blockbuster movie “It Ends with Us,” “IMPACT x Nightline” takes a deep dive into the ongoing legal battle between co-stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni and their fight in the court of public opinion.

Celebrities are dissolving their face fillers, and some young people are also following suit. Some in their 20s are going from needles to knives, seeking facelifts or other surgeries over Botox and fillers to tap into the fountain of youth.

This week, “IMPACT x Nightline” delves into the chilling case of Rex Heuermann, a Long Island man charged with murdering seven women, many of them sex workers, and scattering their remains along a half-mile stretch of coastline on Gilgo Beach in Long Island, New York, and in the woods further east. The episode investigates Heuermann’s alleged crimes through new interviews with true crime experts, law enforcement and those who have encountered the suspect himself, including a woman who says she went on a date with Heuermann before his arrest. The episode takes viewers through key evidence, including an alleged “planning document” and the shocking discovery of DNA evidence from a discarded pizza crust, which lead investigators to believe Heuermann committed the murders in his family home. Heuermann has pleaded not guilty. Tune into “IMPACT x Nightline” to learn more.