In the new MGM+ Original series, best-selling crime novelist Michael Connelly (Bosch, The Lincoln Lawyer) takes us on a gripping and wild journey into the twisted and bloody Wonderland Avenue massacre, a real-life Hollywood murder case that has fascinated the public for over four decades. The story, set against the backdrop of Los Angeles in 1981, is a dark blend of sex, drugs, rock ‘n’ roll… and murder.

For those familiar with this infamous crime, the Wonderland Murders is not just another Hollywood scandal—it’s an era-defining event that inspired films like Boogie Nights and serves as a chilling reminder of the darker side of fame. Connelly, with his signature style of intense and detailed storytelling, brings us closer to the brutal events of that night, using noir-style interviews and never-before-seen archival footage to piece together a crime that still baffles many.

The Story That Shaped an Era
July 1, 1981, marked one of the most notorious murders in Hollywood’s history. Known as the Wonderland Murders, the case involved the gruesome killings of four people in a Laurel Canyon home—a bloody massacre tied to the city’s underworld of drugs and violence. The tale is populated by a colorful yet tragic cast of characters, including porn star John Holmes, infamous drug dealers, and Hollywood elites.

At the center of Connelly’s exploration is Holmes, who became embroiled in the events surrounding the murders. His involvement has long been shrouded in mystery, and Connelly, who first covered the case as a young crime reporter for The Los Angeles Times, now reopens the file with fresh eyes. But this series isn’t just about revisiting old facts—it’s about untangling the chaotic web of lies, stories, and cover-ups that have left this case unsolved for so long.

The Hunt for Truth: Fact or Fiction?
One of the series’ most intriguing elements is Connelly’s interview with Scott Thorson, an enigmatic figure known for his high-profile relationship with Liberace and his own brushes with fame. Thorson’s involvement in the Wonderland saga, along with his unbelievable and often contradictory stories, forms the backbone of this series’ investigation. Connelly plays a cat-and-mouse game with Thorson, challenging his claims and trying to separate fact from the fiction that has long clouded the Wonderland Murders.

Thorson, a man who seems to thrive in the spotlight of infamy, may hold the last key to understanding what really happened that fateful night. But as Connelly digs deeper, the question becomes: Can we trust anything Thorson says? After all, his life, filled with flamboyant excess and personal turmoil, reads like a Hollywood script.

Why This Series Matters
This MGM+ series isn’t just about revisiting an old case—it’s about dissecting the culture of excess that defined a generation of Hollywood’s elite. From drug kingpins to celebrities like Liberace, the Wonderland Murders encapsulate the dark, dangerous underbelly of fame and fortune. Through interviews with original detectives, prosecutors, and undercover cops, as well as rare archival footage, the series pieces together a time when Los Angeles was gripped by glamour and grunge.

Michael Connelly’s return to this case brings with it the perspective of a seasoned crime writer who has spent years honing his skills in the world of crime fiction and reporting. His deep understanding of human nature, the justice system, and the intricacies of a good mystery make this series a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts and fans of his previous work.

So, do we believe Thorson? Can Connelly unravel the truth after 40 years of confusion? Tune in to find out, as this series promises to be an unforgettable exploration of one of Hollywood’s most twisted tales.