COJ #124 - Is ‘White Lotus’ Plot Inspired By Alex Murdaugh? + Something Is Happening In Stephen Smith Case…

Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell and attorney Eric Bland — think they know where the finale for the third season of “White Lotus” is headed … (01:42) let’s just say things are seeming mighty familiar there. (22:09) Speaking of the Murdaugh family … on today’s episode Mandy, Liz and Eric also dive into Buster Murdaugh’s latest filing in his federal defamation case — specifically, the part of the memo that indicates Buster has depositions from people who have personal knowledge of the events that led to Stephen Smith’s death in July 2015 … along with the origins of the rumor that Buster was somehow involved. What do those depositions say? Has he shared them with SLED? And wow are Mandy and Liz left speechless by the Stephen Smith-related news that Eric shares with them while on the topic of Buster’s case. (07:49) Plus, why would Hunter Biden need Dick Harpootlian to be his attorney? (54:43) Also, the latest in Myrtle Beach “pastor” John-Paul Miller’s frivolous defamation cases and the quick reopening and reclosing of Chris Skinner’s 2021 death investigation by the Myrtle Beach Police Department. What does it all mean? ☕ Cup's Up! ⚖️ Episode Resources “SC attorney Harpootlian to represent Hunter Biden in federal libel suit” - Live 5 News, March 26, 2025 “Police close investigation into man’s 2021 drowning death at Myrtle Beach pool” - WBTW, March 31, 2025 Eric’s Book Signing at Hilton Head B&N on April 19, 2025 Premium Member Resources Dick Harpootlian’s Pro Hac Vice Filing - March 3, 2025 Buster Murdaugh’s Federal Reply Memo - March 24, 2025 SC Grand Jury Rules & Information SC Grand Juror Handbook Alexandra Cuozzo’s Countersuit Transfer Order - March 26, 2025 Chris Skinner’s Coroner Report Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️ Premium Members also get access to episode videos, case files, live trial coverage and exclusive live experiences with our hosts. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE. Check out Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ What We're Buying... Quince - Give yourself the luxury you deserve with Quince! Go to Quince.com/COJ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Here's a link to some of our favorite things: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn Find us on social media: bsky.app/profile/mandy-matney.com | bsky.app/profile/elizfarrell.com | bsky.app/profile/theericbland.bsky.social Twitter.com/mandymatney | Twitter.com/elizfarrell | Twitter.com/theericbland https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ YouTube | TIKTOK SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** *The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices