Last Days

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 175 - Sam Neill Jul 27, 2026

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On July 13, 2026, Sam Neill — the acclaimed New Zealand actor whose commanding screen presence, understated charisma, and unforgettable performances in Jurassic Park, The Piano, The Hunt for Red October, and Peaky Blinders made him one of the most respected and recognizable actors of his generation — died after a battle with blood cancer. Over a remarkable career spanning more than five decades, Neill brought depth, intelligence, and humanity to an extraordinary range of roles, while building a life beyond Hollywood through his passion for winemaking and his deep connection to New Zealand. Sam Neill is remembered as a gifted and enduring screen icon whose work touched generations of moviegoers. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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Ep. 174 - Brian Jones Jul 20, 2026

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On July 3, 1969, Brian Jones — the brilliant but troubled founding member of The Rolling Stones who helped shape the band's early sound through his adventurous blend of blues, rock, and world music influences — died at his home in Sussex, England at the age of 27. At the time of his death, Jones had only recently been dismissed from the band he created, as years of substance abuse, legal troubles, and growing tensions with Mick Jagger and Keith Richards had left him increasingly isolated from the group’s creative direction. More than half a century later, Brian Jones -- who tragically became a member of the so-called "27 Club" when he died -- remains one of rock's most enigmatic pioneers, a gifted musician whose restless experimentation helped launch one of the greatest bands in history.

Hosts: Eric Colley & Derek Kaufman

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Ep. 173 - James “Whitey” Bulger Jul 13, 2026

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On June 22, 2011, James “Whitey” Bulger — the notorious Boston crime boss whose decades-long reign of organized crime, alleged involvement in multiple murders, and shocking ability to evade capture made him one of the FBI’s most wanted fugitives — was arrested in Santa Monica, California, after more than sixteen years on the run. His capture marked the end of one of the most infamous manhunts in American history, exposing a web of corruption, violence, and FBI misconduct that blurred the line between law enforcement and organized crime. Years after his conviction and 2018 prison killing, Whitey Bulger remains one of the most infamous figures in modern criminal history, with his life continuing to fuel books, documentaries, and endless debate over the true extent of his power and influence.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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Ep. 172 - Jim Henson Jul 06, 2026

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On May 16, 1990, Jim Henson — the visionary puppeteer, filmmaker, and creator whose boundless imagination, gentle humor, and unforgettable characters transformed children's entertainment and captivated audiences of all ages — died in New York City at the age of 53. At the time of his death, Henson was at the height of his creative powers, having built a global entertainment empire through Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and beloved films like The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. More than three decades later, Jim Henson remains one of the most influential storytellers of the twentieth century, a creative genius whose enduring legacy continues to inspire generations.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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Ep. 171 - Marilyn Monroe Jun 29, 2026

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On August 5, 1962, Marilyn Monroe—the glamorous actress whose beauty, charisma, vulnerability, and unforgettable screen presence made her one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons—died in Los Angeles at the age of 36. By the time of her death, Monroe had become one of the world’s biggest stars through films like Some Like It Hot, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and The Seven Year Itch, while also becoming a symbol of fame’s pressures behind the scenes. More than six decades later, Marilyn Monroe remains one of the most recognizable and influential figures in popular culture, remembered not only for her timeless performances and unmistakable image but also for the humanity and complexity that continue to fascinate audiences around the world.
Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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Ep. 3 - Jelly Roll & Bunnie XO Jun 23, 2026

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Hosts:Derek Kaufman, Katie Hayes

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Special Episode: Clive Davis Jun 22, 2026

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On June 22, 2026, Clive Davis — the legendary music executive whose extraordinary ear for talent helped shape the sound of popular music for more than six decades — remains one of the most influential figures in entertainment. From guiding the careers of artists like Whitney Houston, Alicia Keys, Barry Manilow, and Jennifer Hudson to helping launch countless chart-topping records, Davis has played a pivotal role in defining generations of music. Known for his keen instincts, industry leadership, and lasting impact on the recording business, his legacy continues to be felt across genres and throughout the music world.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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Ep. 170 - AC/DC's Bon Scott Jun 22, 2026

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On February 19, 1980, Bon Scott — the hard-living Scottish-born singer whose raspy voice, mischievous charisma, and rebellious swagger helped transform AC/DC from an Australian pub-rock act into one of the most explosive bands in hard rock — died in London at the age of 33. At the time of his death, AC/DC was on the verge of international superstardom, having recently released Highway to Hell, the album that finally broke the band into the American mainstream. More than four decades later, Bon Scott remains one of rock's most iconic frontmen, a larger-than-life figure whose voice, humor, and reckless energy helped define the sound and spirit of hard rock.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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Ep. 169 - Malcolm X Jun 15, 2026

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On February 21, 1965, Malcolm X — the influential civil rights leader whose powerful voice challenged America to confront racism, inequality, and injustice — was assassinated in New York City at the age of 39. Rising from a troubled youth to become one of the most prominent and controversial figures of the Civil Rights Movement, Malcolm X captivated audiences with his uncompromising rhetoric, intellectual rigor, and unwavering commitment to Black empowerment. In the final years of his life, his views evolved following a pilgrimage to Mecca, broadening his vision of racial unity while maintaining his demand for dignity and human rights. His assassination cut short a transformative life, but his ideas, activism, and enduring influence continue to shape conversations about race and justice around the world.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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Ep. 1 - Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie Jun 11, 2026

Show notes

Here’s a TMZ-style episode description:

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie seemed destined to become Hollywood royalty after falling in love on the set of Mr. & Mrs. Smith, building a global empire of fame, philanthropy, and six children. But behind the glamorous image, cracks were forming that would eventually lead to one of the most bitter and prolonged celebrity breakups in modern history. On this episode of Splits, Derek Kaufman and Katie Hayes trace Brangelina’s rise from controversial beginnings to power-couple dominance, then unpack the private struggles, explosive allegations, custody war, and years-long legal battles that turned their separation into an international spectacle. From the infamous plane incident to the ongoing disputes over their French winery, this is the story of how Hollywood’s most iconic romance fell apart.

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