Plot Synopsis

DEADLY INFLUENCE: THE SOCIAL MEDIA MURDERS is a six-episode documentary series that unpacks shocking true crime stories involving influencers and digital communities across the social media landscape. The series delves into the underbelly of social media, exploring the dark reality of toxic online communities and showcasing the devastating risks associated with viral social media fame. DEADLY INFLUENCE: THE SOCIAL MEDIA MURDERS tackles a wide range of cases from all corners of the digital landscape. From individuals seeking community who end up being targeted by toxic forums patrolled by angry, misogynistic rhetoric to popular social media personalities who have heartbreaking, hidden lives, DEADLY INFLUENCE will pull back the curtain on the dark intricacies of social media and the dangers that lurk within. While social media may appear as the key to opportunity and validation -- the ability to build a career as an influencer and access wealth, celebrity, power and find communities that offer connectivity -- involvement in these digital environments can breed a dangerous type of reality. Episodes this season include:

"Sin City Clickbait" (Monday, June 3, 2024 at 9pm ET/PT on ID): Ash, a self-styled Instagram "sex and fitness guru", began his career as a male escort and built a life in the glitz, glamour and excess of the Las Vegas party scene. But the envious lifestyle he presented to his countless followers took a deadly turn when his break-up with another high-profile influencer catapulted him into a twisted, drug infused downward spiral that culminated in a violent, senseless act.

"TikTok Terror" (Monday, June 10, 2024 at 9pm ET/PT on ID): As a 28-year-old Sania battles through divorce, her passionate and searingly honest Tik Toks attract tens of thousands of followers. But she soon discovers that members of her community want to silence her - and will stop at nothing to do it.

"RIP Bianca" (Monday, June 17, 2024 at 9pm ET/PT on ID): Anime-obsessed teenager Bianca becomes an inspiring mental health advocate online and changes lives. But on forums and social media accounts, she discovers a horrifying and violent side: young men primed to threaten, harm, and attack.

"Killer Content" (Monday, June 24, 2024 at 9pm ET/PT on ID): Successful teenage film reviewer Trey is building an online empire on YouTube, attracting hundreds of thousands of views. But it can't last, and soon, he finds himself dragged into a shocking world of guns and revenge.

"Hashtag Halloween Horror" (Monday, July 1, 2024 at 9pm ET/PT on ID): Stephanie, a feisty, loveable younger woman from New Jersey, is building a brand as a bespoke make up and Special Effects artist. But offline, her life becomes complicated and spirals into mystery when she vanishes into thin air on the eve of Halloween.

"Control, Alt, Delete" (Monday, July 8, 2024 at 9pm ET/PT on ID): A vibrant and inspiring group from Denver's creative community spreads messages of love and inclusion, attracting many online followers. Soon they become the target of a hateful and violent member of the online manosphere with shocking consequences.