Journalist Scott Johnson and private investigator Nicole Kotsianas’ investigation into the scam artist known as the “Con Queen” unfolds in the documentary series Hollywood Con Queen. Apple TV+ set a May 8, 2024 premiere date for the three-part docuseries, based on Johnson’s Hollywood Con Queen: The Hunt for an Evil Genius.
“A mysterious figure dubbed the ‘Con Queen’ impersonates the industry’s most powerful women, luring unsuspecting victims to Indonesia with the promise of a life-changing career opportunity,” reads Apple TV+’s synopsis. “The ‘Con Queen’s marks exhaust their personal finances in pursuit of a big break while being exploited in a perverse psychological game spanning the globe. The scam eventually draws the attention of veteran investigative journalist Scott Johnson of The Hollywood Reporter, and dedicated private investigator Nicole Kotsianas, formerly of K2 Integrity, who set out to find the truth, only to discover a story more strange than they could have imagined.”
Johnson’s lengthy investigation involved interviews with the scam artist’s victims. The Con Queen, whom Apple TV+’s press release requested not to mention by name, impersonated a list of Hollywood power players including Amy Pascal (former chair of Sony) and Star Wars producer Kathleen Kennedy. Once ensnared, the scammer used various methods to drain his victims’ bank accounts.
Emmy winner Chris Smith (100 Foot Wave) directed the docuseries and executive produces. Ben Anderson also executive produces, with journalist Scott Johnson involved as a consulting producer.
