Talking Dateline: In the Matter of Alex Murdaugh
- May 20, 2026
- 30:24
- Full Episode
<p>Andrea Canning sits down with Dateline producers Carol Gable and Haylee Barber to discuss Craig Melvin’s latest episode, “In the Matter of Alex Murdaugh.” In June of 2021, the wife and son of prominent South Carolina attorney Alex Murdaugh were found shot to death in the back of their family estate. One year later, Murdaugh was indicted for their murders. He pleaded not guilty. His trial began in January 2023 and was labeled "the trial of the decade" by local news outlets. A jury found him guilty, and he was sentenced to serve life in prison. But last week, the South Carolina State Supreme Court overturned the convictions citing conduct on the part of court clerk Becky Hill that denied Murdaugh a fair trial. Haylee and Carol share what it was like to learn such major news on a case they’ve been covering for years. Andrea shares an extra clip of Craig discussing the overturned verdict with Murdaugh’s defense attorneys. Plus, Haylee and Carol answer your questions from social media.</p> <p>Have a question for Talking Dateline? DM us @DatelineNBC or leave a voicemail at (212) 413-5252 – your question could be featured in an upcoming episode.</p> <p>Listen to the full episode of “In the Matter of Alex Murdaugh” on Apple: <a href="https://apple.co/3Rn9uJ2" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://apple.co/3Rn9uJ2</a></p> <p>Listen on Spotify: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6qkmoiTc6eoOVNO6mHyw24" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://open.spotify.com/episode/6qkmoiTc6eoOVNO6mHyw24</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>
Brief Summary
The episode covers the Alec Murdoch case, focusing on the new trial and the implications of the court clerk's misconduct.
Key points
- Alec Murdoch's Shocking Trial. Alec Murdoch, a prominent attorney, becomes the chief suspect in his wife and son's murders.
- The Court Clerk's Controversy. Allegations arise against clerk Rebecca Hill regarding jury misconduct during the trial.
- A New Trial for Alec Murdoch. Alec Murdoch is granted a new trial, raising questions about the previous verdict.
- The Missing Guns and Money. Questions linger about the whereabouts of missing guns and stolen money in the Murdoch case.
- Challenges in Finding Jurors. Finding jurors who aren't influenced by prior knowledge of the case is a major hurdle.
- The Complexity of a Death Penalty Jury. Seating a jury for a death penalty case is even more challenging than usual.
Episode highlights
- Alec Murdoch's Shocking TrialAlec Murdoch, a prominent attorney, becomes the chief suspect in his wife and son's murders.“It's Alec who is the chief suspect in this case.”1:13May 20, 2026
- The Court Clerk's ControversyAllegations arise against clerk Rebecca Hill regarding jury misconduct during the trial.“She put her finger on the scales of justice.”2:09May 20, 2026
- A New Trial for Alec MurdochAlec Murdoch is granted a new trial, raising questions about the previous verdict.“Alec got a new trial!”14:27May 20, 2026
- The Missing Guns and MoneyQuestions linger about the whereabouts of missing guns and stolen money in the Murdoch case.“Where is the money and where are the guns?”26:45May 20, 2026
- Challenges in Finding JurorsFinding jurors who aren't influenced by prior knowledge of the case is a major hurdle.“How will they find any jurors for number two?”27:34May 20, 2026
- The Complexity of a Death Penalty JurySeating a jury for a death penalty case is even more challenging than usual.“If the death penalty comes into play, that puts this case in a whole different category.”29:14May 20, 2026
