This week we conclude our series on history's most famous forensic pathologist by charting his fall from grace across the span of two decades.

Starting in 1926 we discuss how Bernard's reputation was finally challenged, and how he proved to be unable to adapt to an ever changing legal and medical landscape. Though that being said, the quality of his personal grooming and tailored suits was never brought into question.

With stories of bigamy (that definitely happened), matricide (which almost certainly didn't) and a dog with murderous intent (you will need to decide for yourself), this episode is an epic conclusion to Sir Bernard's story in every sense of the word.

Guest Host: Tom Heathcote

(Part 3/3)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second part of our story we discuss how Bernard went from being a dissector of corpses to a national institution and a knight of the realm.

But while the courts were happy with the conviction rate, Sir Bernard's methods became more scrutinised by the medial community at large. This was a potential problem for Spilsbury as it turned out that most were absolutely horrified by what they saw, with many fellow doctors beginning to come to the realisation that they might have to step in or risk their entire profession being brought into disrepute.

Oh, and obviously we also discuss many horrific murders.

Guest Host: Tom Heathcote

(Part 2 of 3)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are embarking on the story of one of the most famous medical men of the 20th Century. And also one of the most controversial.

Little Bernard Spilsbury did not show any particular interest in becoming a doctor. But as his father James wanted to live vicariously through his firstborn son, his wishes could be ignored.

It was not an easy process, but through a combination of dressing to impress, being willing to do the jobs other people disliked and sheer dumb luck, Bernard was able to find a niche within the medical community...

... unfortunately that niche was forensic pathology, meaning that Bernard would literally hold the lives of accused murderers in his hands.

What could possibly go wrong?

Guest Host: Tom Heathcote

(Part 1/3)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.