Plot Synopsis

Based on Gary Kinder's 1998 book, "Ship of Gold in the Deep Blue Sea," CURSED GOLD: A SHIPWRECK SCANDAL is a three-part documentary that tells the true story of maverick scientist Tommy Thompson and his resourceful team who stunned the world in 1989 by recovering three tons of gold from the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean from the famous 1857 shipwreck S.S. Central America. This three-parter follows the 30-year story of adventure, deception and personal turmoil that takes Tommy from a celebrated explorer to an infamous fugitive and, ultimately, to the inside of a prison cell. With exclusive access to over 600 hours of archival footage and thousands of slides, prints, photos and newspaper clippings on the original exploration mission -- many of which have never been seen before -- the series is a cautionary tale of obsession and its devastating consequences. Directed by Sam Benstead, CURSED GOLD: A SHIPWRECK SCANDAL debuted on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 on National Geographic Channel, which aired all three episodes back to back:

"Impossible Riches" (8pm): A maverick scientist begins his quest to find a shipwreck full of gold.

"Follow the Money" (9pm): Tommy Thompson is labeled a hero, but his dreams soon crumble around him.

"The Manhunt" (10pm): Tommy Thompson fails to appear in court, and the search begins.