20/20 Podcast Summary: "Bad Romance: Love You to Death"

Episode Information:

• Title: Bad Romance: Love You to Death
• Host/Author: ABC News - 20/20
• Release Date: April 15, 2025
• Description: Unforgettable true crime mysteries, exclusive newsmaker interviews, hard-hitting investigative reports, and in-depth coverage of high-profile stories.

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "Bad Romance: Love You to Death," ABC News's 20/20 delves deep into the tragic and mysterious death of Molly Watson. Set against the backdrop of an impending wedding, this true crime story unravels the complexities of love, deceit, and betrayal that culminate in a shocking courtroom drama.

The Discovery of a Tragedy

On the night of April 27, 2018, Glenn McSparrin was making his usual shortcut on a remote country road in Monroe County, Missouri. What began as an ordinary drive took a sinister turn when he encountered an unsettling scene.

Glenn McSparrin (00:10:30):

"I couldn't get a really 100% clear look at him. But McSparrin's description of the car that man was driving, that old grandma car, police say matches Addie's car."

McSparrin's initial encounter with the vehicle and the subsequent exchange with an older man raised red flags. His intuition proved correct when, just 30 minutes later, he stumbled upon the lifeless body of Molly Watson.

Molly Watson: The Victim

Molly Watson, 35, was on the cusp of her dream wedding, less than 48 hours away. Friends and family described her as "sweet, creative, and bubbly," with aspirations of becoming a singer and a burgeoning YouTube presence showcasing her talents in makeup and sewing.

Friend's Testimonial (00:15:45):

"She was really good at that. She has a YouTube channel. She plays with makeup and shows off her sewing. She wanted to start, like, a weekly vlog where she would, you know, just talk about herself or what's going on in her life."

Molly's engagement to James Addy was the talk of her social circle, with elaborate plans for a Renaissance-themed wedding full of "burgundy and gold." However, this joyous occasion was tragically cut short.

James Addy: A Double Life Unveiled

James Addy, Molly's fiancé, was revealed to be living a double life. At 16 years Molly's senior, James was not only engaged to Molly but also married to Melanie Addy, with whom he had two children, Ben and Emma.

Detective Bradley Rehm (00:25:10):

"This man has been living two lives. He was over it. He was done. He didn't love her anymore."

Investigations uncovered that James had deceived both women, leading a life of deceit that eventually led to murder.

The Investigation: Piecing Together the Evidence

The crime scene provided crucial evidence:

• Tire Tracks: Distinctively marked with "two O's," matching the Goodyear tires of James Addy's vehicle ([00:35:20]).
• Bloodstained T-Shirt: Found near the scene, later identified as belonging to Emma Addy, James's daughter ([00:36:50]).
• Empty .22 Caliber Ammo Box: Suggestive of a small caliber firearm used in the murder.

Forensic Expert (00:40:00):

"That particular tire made that particular impression. It’s consistent with Addie's car."

Molly’s cell phone revealed her last calls and messages, indicating she was in communication with James on the night of her death.

The Double Deception: James Addy's Web of Lies

James Addy's deceit extended to fabricating a story about his ex-wife Melanie’s death in a car accident, hoping to manipulate Molly into postponing their wedding.

James Addy (00:50:30):

"I love you so, so much."

However, Molly's own investigations led her to uncover the truth, prompting a fatal confrontation.

The Trial: Unraveling the Truth in Court

During the trial, prosecutors presented a mountain of evidence:

• Tire Track Analysis: Expert testimony confirmed the match between the crime scene and Addy's vehicle.
• Cell Phone Records: Indicated a premeditated plan to kill Molly.
• Emma Addy's Testimony: Identified the bloodstained T-shirt as her own, connecting it to the crime ([01:10:15]).

Melanie Addy (01:05:00):

"He was a pretty selfish person. He could be controlling and intimidating, and it can be challenging."

Despite the compelling evidence, the defense aimed to sow reasonable doubt by highlighting the absence of a murder weapon and questioning witness reliability.

Verdict and Sentencing

After deliberating for two and a half hours, the jury delivered a unanimous verdict.

Court Reporter:

"We, the jury, find the defendant James Addy guilty of murder in the first degree and armed criminal action."

James Addy was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Aftermath and Reflections

The sentencing brought a semblance of closure to Molly’s family but left deep scars.

Melanie Addy (Post-Trial):

"I can't even tell you. It was just mind-boggling. It made no sense at all."

James Addy continued to assert his innocence, requesting a new trial and claiming ineffective counsel. In a poignant moment, he read a love letter expressing his undying love for Molly, further complicating perceptions of his character.

James Addy (During Sentencing):

"Molly is the love of my life. She's not here. She lost her life."

Conclusion

"Bad Romance: Love You to Death" encapsulates a harrowing tale of love gone wrong, emphasizing the devastating impact of deceit and betrayal. Through meticulous investigation and unwavering pursuit of truth, ABC News's 20/20 sheds light on the dark complexities of human relationships, ultimately delivering justice for Molly Watson.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Glenn McSparrin (07:45):

  "That just... it doesn't. Something's not right."

• Detective Bradley Rehm (34:10):

  "James Addy has been living two lives."

• Melanie Addy (01:05:00):

  "He was a pretty selfish person. He could be controlling and intimidating, and it can be challenging."

• James Addy (1:45:00):

  "Molly is the love of my life. She’s not here. She lost her life."

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the "Bad Romance: Love You to Death" episode, highlighting key discussions, insights, and conclusions. By focusing on the pivotal moments and including direct quotes with proper attribution and timestamps, the summary offers a detailed and engaging overview for both listeners and newcomers alike.