Bob Crane: From sitcom hero to crime scene headline episode artwork

EPISODE · Dec 3, 2025 · 23 MIN

Bob Crane: From sitcom hero to crime scene headline

from Splintered Minds: The Psychology of the Unthinkable · host Sebastian Gray

June 29th, 1978. Bob Crane—star of Hogan’s Heroes—was found bludgeoned to death in his Scottsdale apartment, a cord around his neck and severe head wounds from a blunt object. There was no sign of forced entry.   Crane had been living a double life: beloved sitcom actor by day, consumed by his obsession with sex and videotaping by night. His friend, video technician John Carpenter, often joined him, helping record his encounters.   Behind the laughter was a man consumed by obsession. Fame fed his ego. The camera fed his need for control.    When Crane tried to walk away, the story turned deadly.

June 29th, 1978. Bob Crane—star of Hogan’s Heroes—was found bludgeoned to death in his Scottsdale apartment, a cord around his neck and severe head wounds from a blunt object. There was no sign of forced entry.   Crane had been living a double life: beloved sitcom actor by day, consumed by his obsession with sex and videotaping by night. His friend, video technician John Carpenter, often joined him, helping record his encounters.   Behind the laughter was a man consumed by obsession. Fame fed his ego. The camera fed his need for control.    When Crane tried to walk away, the story turned deadly.

NOW PLAYING

Bob Crane: From sitcom hero to crime scene headline

0:00 23:56

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Splintered Minds: The Psychology of the Unthinkable?

This episode is 23 minutes long.

When was this Splintered Minds: The Psychology of the Unthinkable episode published?

This episode was published on December 3, 2025.

What is this episode about?

June 29th, 1978. Bob Crane—star of Hogan’s Heroes—was found bludgeoned to death in his Scottsdale apartment, a cord around his neck and severe head wounds from a blunt object. There was no sign of forced entry.   Crane had been living a double life:...

Can I download this Splintered Minds: The Psychology of the Unthinkable episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!