Cruising vs. Paul Bateson: The Exorcist Actor Suspected of NYC's Bag Murders

The Fear Archive investigates Paul Bateson — a radiology technician, Exorcist film extra, and convicted killer — and William Friedkin's Cruising, the film that documented the exact world Bateson moved through while bodies were disappearing into the Hudson River. Between 1975 and 1977, at least six men were murdered, dismembered, and dumped into the Hudson in plastic bags. Paul Bateson was convicted of one killing. Friedkin believed he was responsible for more — and made a film about it. The result was one of the most controversial movies ever produced: a portrait of New York's leather bar underground that the community it depicted rejected, that critics could not classify, and that law enforcement found uncomfortably accurate. Hosted by Amanda Kagiwada and Michael Ryan Assip. Executive produced by Cassie Jozefov. A Violet Hour Media production. LISTENER WARNING: This program includes discussion of real-world violence and other subject matter that may be upsetting for some listeners. Please proceed with caution. Popular Topics Include: Paul Bateson, Cruising 1980, William Friedkin, Al Pacino, Hudson River bag murders, Exorcist film extra, LGBTQ true crime, New York City serial killer, true crime horror podcast, Fear Archive, horror podcast, Violet Hour Media, gay bar murders 1970s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices