Italian
Journeys into Hollywood’s dark side
Unveiling the crime roots in 90210
Hollywood is synonymous with glamour, fame, and fortune. However, as recent literary works have shown, it also harbors a shadowy past filled with scandal and sin. A new book, Beverly Hills Noir: Crime, Sin, and Scandal in 90210, sheds light on this darker side of one of the world’s most famous zip codes.
The allure of true crime in the spotlight
In Beverly Hills Noir, the author doesn’t just recount tales; they create a vivid tableau of early criminal activities that defined Beverly Hills. From high-profile heists to crimes of passion, the book serves as a meticulous guide to some of Hollywood’s most extraordinary criminal cases. This in-depth investigation is the result of decades of journalistic experience and a personal obsession with crime stories.
The making of a crime storyteller
Raised on a steady diet of classic procedural dramas such as “Adam-12,” “Hill Street Blues,” and “Dragnet,” the author’s early exposure to the genre set the stage for a lifelong fascination with crime and justice. This passion led to a significant career in journalism, including time spent on a crime beat at a Beverly Hills newspaper. This unique vantage point allowed for an unparalleled insider’s perspective on the subject.
A front-row seat to a media spectacle
One of the book’s most compelling anecdotes describes the author’s first few days in Los Angeles, coinciding with the infamous OJ Simpson Bronco chase. Witnessing such a high-stakes crime unfold almost immediately upon moving to the city only added fuel to the author’s burgeoning interest in crime reporting. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of an illustrious career in both crime and entertainment journalism.
Building a personal crime archive
Despite moving on to cover entertainment exclusively, the author amassed an extensive library dedicated to the early days of crime in Beverly Hills. This collection, comprising books, newspaper clippings, and even hard copies of their work, eventually became the foundation for Beverly Hills Noir. Initially conceived as a history of the Beverly Hills Police Department, the project evolved into something more profound as more details came to light.
Crafting a true crime narrative
The process of converting years of research into a non-fiction book was both challenging and rewarding. Encouraged by family during the pandemic, the author found the focus needed to complete the manuscript. The ensuing proposal quickly attracted an agent and a publishing deal, culminating in the book’s release on October 1.
Key cases explored in the book
The Greystone Mansion Murders
The first chapter dives into the construction of the iconic Greystone Mansion and details the double murder of Ned Doheny and his assistant Hugh Plunkett. This high-profile case set the tone for what would become a series of equally captivating stories.
Hollywood’s gentleman jewel thief
Another fascinating chapter explores the escapades of Gerard Graham Dennis, a gentleman thief who allegedly targeted the rich and famous. His story, filled with charm and deceit, exemplifies the intrigue of Hollywood’s criminal underworld.
Crimes of passion
The book also delves into the crime of passion committed by Walter Wanger against Jennings Lang. This case highlights the dramatic and often sensational aspects of true crime in Beverly Hills.
The Winona Ryder scandal
Even more recent events, such as Winona Ryder’s early 2000s shoplifting scandal, are examined. These modern chapters show that celebrity crime remains a relevant and riveting topic.
Looking forward: More tales to be told
With the release of Beverly Hills Noir, the author aims to continue unearthing more stories that didn’t make it into the first book. The ambition extends beyond the written word, with hopes of adapting these tales for television and film. This multi-platform approach could mirror successful formats seen in limited series by prominent creators in the industry.
Did you enjoy this article? Share it on your social channels and let us know your thoughts! Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Follow us on social media to stay informed about the newest releases.
