Hosted by Ice-T, “Fame and Fentanyl” exposes the drug’s devastating effects on celebrities and American society.
From public figures to ordinary families, “Fame and Fentanyl”, hosted and produced by Ice-T, explores how the synthetic opioid has forever changed the cultural landscape of the United States. The special premieres on Thursday, November 13, at 11:45 p.m. on A&E.
The impact of fentanyl on fame and society
The documentary examines the stories of celebrities such as Prince, Tom Petty, Angus Cloud, Michael K. Williams, Mac Miller, and Coolio, whose deaths highlighted the fentanyl epidemic. It also gives voice to grieving families who turned their pain into advocacy and to journalists tracking the drug’s spread.
The program reveals that fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and has become a national tragedy affecting people across all backgrounds. In 2022 alone, 73,838 deaths were linked to fentanyl, making it the leading cause of death among Americans aged 18 to 45.
Testimonies and real stories
The special includes testimonies from prosecutors, police officers, emergency doctors, and victims’ families. Among them is musician Jelly Roll, who addressed the U.S. Congress in 2024, stating, “Every five minutes someone dies in the United States, and there’s a 72% chance it’s due to fentanyl.”
It also shows how cases like that of Michael K. Williams led to the conviction of dealers who sold lethal doses. Meanwhile, parents such as Juli Shamash and Matt Capelouto championed the Tyler Law and Alexandra Law, pushing for stronger prevention and tougher penalties.
Fighting back and raising awareness
In 2024, President Joe Biden signed the Fentanyl Act, tightening control over synthetic opioid production and trafficking. However, the crisis persists, even though 2023 data suggests a slight decrease in deaths for the first time.
The special also investigates criminal cases, showing how law enforcement traced and prosecuted dealers involved in celebrity deaths. Organizations like the Ruff Ryders Rescue Foundation are also featured for their work in promoting prevention and offering support to those at risk.
“Fame and Fentanyl” is a Candle True Stories production for A&E, with executive producers James Goldston, Steven Baker, Erica Hanson, Graham McKay, Ice-T, and Jorge Hinojosa. Directed by Erica Hanson, the special also features Elaine Frontain Bryant and Brad Abramson as executive producers for A&E.
Premiere: November 13, Thursday, at 11:45 p.m.
Rating: 14+
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