20/20 After Show: Family Lies?
ABC News
Release Date: April 7, 2025
Introduction
In the gripping episode titled "Family Lies?" from ABC News' renowned 20/20 After Show, host Debra Roberts delves deep into a complex true crime saga that has captivated listeners worldwide. The episode explores the mysterious circumstances surrounding Nathan Carman, a young man who survived a harrowing ordeal at sea only to be implicated in the suspicious deaths of his mother and grandfather. Through exclusive interviews, investigative insights, and firsthand accounts, the show unpacks whether Nathan is a tragic victim or a calculated orchestrator of his family's demise.
The Nathan Carman Story
Background and Survival Tale
The episode opens with the astonishing survival story of Nathan Carman. In 2016, Nathan was found adrift on a life raft in the Atlantic Ocean after his fishing boat, Chickenpox, sank during a deep-sea fishing trip. Initially hailed as a tale of miraculous survival, the narrative took a darker turn when investigators uncovered unsettling connections to his family's past.
Key Quote:
"He calls for his mother throughout the rest of the day. Never once saw her, never heard from her." [00:02:06] – Narrator
Suspicious Deaths
Further investigation revealed that Nathan was the last person to see his grandfather, John Chakalos, a millionaire real estate developer, alive. Chakalos was murdered three years prior in what was deemed an execution-style shooting in his own bed. The convergence of these events led detectives to question the legitimacy of the boat sinking, casting Nathan in a suspicious light despite his claims of innocence.
Key Quote:
"Could Nathan have orchestrated the death of two family members to get a hold of his inheritance?" – Debra Roberts [00:04:00]
Investigative Insights with Producer Jonathan Balthazar
Debra Roberts engages in an in-depth conversation with Jonathan Balthazar, a producer for 20/20, who has been integral in covering Nathan's story from its inception.
Producer's Perspective:
Balthazar explains how the story evolved from a simple survival narrative into a multifaceted family mystery.
"At first, it appeared that this was just a heroic rescue tale... But then the layers started to emerge." [00:04:05]
Understanding Nathan's Behavior:
Nathan's demeanor during police interviews added to the suspicion. As someone on the autism spectrum, his reactions were atypical, leading some to question his credibility.
"He doesn't react to questions... which created a lot of extra suspicion on him." [00:05:49]
Recreating the Scene:
To provide viewers with a tangible understanding of Nathan's ordeal, the production team embarked on a meticulous recreation of the sinking incident. They secured a boat similar to Chickenpox and even ventured onto a replica life raft to simulate Nathan's experience.
"I got on a life raft... I was ready to get out. It was hot, it was wet... you still start to get a little queasy." [00:13:21]
Family Dynamics and Motives
The Chakalos Family:
The Chakalos family, depicted as tight-knit yet fraught with internal conflicts, becomes the central focus. John Chakalos, the patriarch, was a wealthy businessman with significant influence, which bred both admiration and resentment within the family.
Key Quote:
"There was constantly this sort of bickering and fighting for love and attention." [00:19:07] – Jonathan Balthazar
Relationship Strains:
Nathan's relationship with his mother, Linda, was tumultuous, marked by frequent disagreements and conflicting interests. These strained relationships raised questions about possible motives behind the alleged murders.
Legal Battles:
Nathan faced legal challenges, including a lawsuit known as the Slayer Petition, which prevents individuals from profiting from acts that lead to another's death. Despite these charges, Nathan maintained his innocence until his untimely death by suicide while awaiting trial.
Key Quote:
"He represented himself pretty wild himself in this lawsuit." [00:16:47] – Jonathan Balthazar
Emotional Toll and Unresolved Mysteries
The episode doesn't shy away from the profound emotional distress experienced by the Chakalos family. Charlene Gallagher, Nathan's aunt, shares her sorrow over Nathan's suicide, highlighting the unhealed wounds and lingering pain within the family.
Personal Accounts:
"I just cried because once again I'm picturing this little child... It was just sad because the whole situation was just so unnecessary." [00:20:45] – Charlene Gallagher
Unresolved Cases:
While Nathan's charges were dismissed posthumously, the murder of John Chakalos remains an open investigation, leaving the family without the closure they desperately seek.
Key Quote:
"John Chakalos case is still active. So no one's had any closure on that." [00:22:07] – Jonathan Balthazar
Behind the Scenes: Producing the Story
Balthazar provides an insider's look into the challenges of bringing such a complex story to the audience. From securing interviews to recreating pivotal scenes, the production team's dedication is evident.
Exclusive Interviews:
The team secured rare footage of Nathan's police interviews, allowing viewers to witness his firsthand reactions under intense scrutiny. These clips empower the audience to form their own judgments about his credibility.
On-Location Filming:
Venturing to significant locations, including the family cemetery, added depth to the narrative. Balthazar recounts an intimate moment where a family member invited him to document a personal tribute, underscoring the human element amidst the tragedy.
"It was a powerful moment for me." [00:23:39] – Jonathan Balthazar
Conclusion
"The After Show: Family Lies?" masterfully intertwines survival, mystery, and familial discord to present a compelling true crime story. Through meticulous investigation and heartfelt interviews, ABC News' 20/20 offers listeners a nuanced exploration of whether Nathan Carman is a victim of fate or a perpetrator of calculated deceit. The episode leaves audiences pondering the intricate dynamics of family loyalty, inheritance motives, and the quest for truth amidst layers of deception.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Debra Roberts:
"Could Nathan have orchestrated the death of two family members to get a hold of his inheritance?" [00:04:00]
-
Jonathan Balthazar:
"At first, it appeared that this was just a heroic rescue tale... But then the layers started to emerge." [00:04:05]
"He doesn't react to questions... which created a lot of extra suspicion on him." [00:05:49] -
Charlene Gallagher:
"I just cried because once again I'm picturing this little child... It was just sad because the whole situation was just so unnecessary." [00:20:45]
-
Jonathan Balthazar:
"John Chakalos case is still active. So no one's had any closure on that." [00:22:07]
Final Thoughts
This episode of 20/20 After Show exemplifies the show's commitment to uncovering the truth behind high-profile mysteries. By presenting multiple perspectives and unearthing hidden facets of the Carman family's story, 20/20 ensures that listeners are not only informed but also emotionally connected to the unfolding drama.
For those intrigued by complex true crime narratives, "Family Lies?" offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, blending investigative rigor with empathetic storytelling.