48 Hours “The Case of the Black Swan” September 7 2024 Recap & Preview
48 HOURS presents a special two-part episode titled “The Case of the Black Swan,” airing on Saturday, September 7, 2024, on CBS and streaming on Paramount+. The series offers a deep dive into the high-stakes murder trial of former ballerina and bikini model Ashley Benefield.
In the trial, Benefield stands accused of killing her husband, Doug Benefield, in 2021. She claims the shooting was an act of self-defense, arguing that her husband attempted to poison her while she was pregnant and had been abusive. According to Benefield, she felt trapped and feared for her life.
Prosecutors, however, argue that Benefield’s claims are a ploy to secure sole custody of their daughter. They depict the shooting as a calculated move in a custody battle, labeling it as murder.
The case has drawn attention due to its dramatic elements—resembling the dark narrative of the film Black Swan. Benefield and her husband’s whirlwind romance, marked by a significant age gap and a brief courtship, has added a layer of intrigue to the case.
Jim Axelrod, a contributor for 48 HOURS, covers the latest developments and courtroom drama, offering viewers an in-depth look at Benefield’s testimony and the ongoing trial.
