The Con

The Con is a compelling documentary series that premiered on ABC in October 2020. Known for tackling serious, compelling issues in a meaningful and insightful way, ABC's series has been lauded for its meticulous storytelling, in-depth research, incredible interviews and its unique ability to ensnare viewer’s attention from start to finish. The show brings back to life some of the most notorious cons in history with an investigative style, revealing the mind of a con artist and the complex planning that goes into the success of their schemes. The docuseries delves into an array of intriguing real-life stories of fraud and deception. Each episode provides an extensive look into a different scandal or fraudulent scheme. The wide-ranging scams all share one common thread: the insatiable pursuit of wealth and material possessions. Whether it be through financial fraud, identity theft, romance scams, or other criminal activity, it is the journey of the con-artist and their grand art of deception that serves as the focal point of the series. True crime enthusiasts have praised the series for its uncompromising documentation of each case. The series doesn’t just discuss and dissect the cons; it delves into the psychology behind each player involved. It helps viewers understand how the malefactor was able to manipulate their victim’s trust and shows what drives these figures into their illicit pursuits. Several episodes explore the con from both perspectives - that of the con artist, and of the unknowing participant. Victim interviews provide first-hand insights into how the scams unfolded, and how these individuals were deceived. These stories are meticulously told through a mix of interviews, archival footage, and narrations which truly make the audience feel like they are part of the investigation. The series includes episodes dedicated to some of the notorious scams which shook the United States and other parts of the world. From the infamous Fyre Festival and the Wine Ponzi Scheme to the college admission scandal and the extraordinary tale of a fake German heiress, each episode lets viewers in on the mastermind behind the deception. These true stories are quite shocking, revealing the audacity of the con artists and the desperate lengths they are willing to go to secure their ill-gotten gains. The Con is not just a narration of the brazen artistry of these scammers, but it is also an empathetic exploration of the unsuspecting victims who had their lives turned upside down by the schemes. It brings to light how the victims were uniquely vulnerable and how they fell into the carefully-constructed web of deceit spun by the con artists. It's a sobering reminder of the extreme vulnerability that can come from placing trust in the wrong hands. Highlighting the societal and human cost each scam wreaks, the series also expertly navigates the often-confusing intricacies of each fraud. Legal experts and fraud investigators provide invaluable commentary throughout the series, throwing light on the complex mechanisms of these deceptive practices. They help viewers comprehend how the fraudsters were finally brought to justice and the aftermath of each scam. The series works as a cautionary tale to the audience. It brings to light the devastating consequences cons have on their victims, who have not just lost their money but also their trust in people. It adds a sense of real-life mystery and intrigue, as it exposes the depths of manipulation and deceit humans are capable of, for personal gain. The series is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the intricacies of the con world. Striking a perfect balance between entertainment and education, The Con does a fantastic job of enlightening viewers about the dark and dangerous world of scams, while also offering a sociological perspective on why these cons occur. Each true-life episode leaves viewers intrigued, astounded, and more aware of the ever-present threat of becoming a victim of deceit. Anyone with an interest in crime documentaries, real-life scams, and psychological manipulation will find The Con to be a captivating and shocking series. In conclusion, The Con is a fascinating and chilling journey into the world of high-stakes fraud. Through its meticulous research and careful storytelling, the series pushes us to question: How well can we truly know the people we trust? And how far are some people willing to go in their pursuit of wealth and power?

The Con is a series categorized as a new series. Spanning 2 seasons with a total of 15 episodes, the show debuted on 2020. The series has earned a moderate reviews from both critics and viewers. The IMDb score stands at 7.8.