20/20: True Crime Vault – Robert Blake

Release Date: June 14, 2025

Introduction

The "True Crime Vault" episode of ABC News' 20/20 delves deep into the enigmatic and highly publicized case of actor Robert Blake, who was accused of murdering his wife, Bonnie Lee Bakley. This comprehensive narrative explores Blake’s rise to fame, the tumultuous relationship with Bakley, the mysterious circumstances surrounding her death, the ensuing investigation, trial, and the lasting impact on Blake's life.

Robert Blake: From Child Star to Television Icon

Robert Blake, originally named Mickey Gubitosi, was discovered as a child actor and swiftly ascended to stardom. MGM studios rebranded him, believing he had star potential comparable to Jackie Coogan in The Kid. His early career was marked by notable roles, including his portrayal of Perry Smith in the film adaptation of In Cold Blood, which showcased his ability to convey complex emotions.

Notable Quote:

"They cast him in his first feature film in the title role as Moki. Good night, son. Now I've got an own mother."
(Transcript [MM:SS])

Despite his promising start, Blake struggled with personal demons, including a tumultuous family life and mental health issues. His perfectionist nature often led to conflicts on set, ultimately resulting in the end of his television career with the popular 1970s cop show Beretta.

Bonnie Lee Bakley: The Woman Behind the Mystery

Bonnie Lee Bakley was a complex figure with a history as a professional con artist. Raised in rural New Jersey, Bakley engaged in various schemes to secure financial stability, often exploiting relationships with wealthy men. Her relentless pursuit of fame and financial security led her to numerous aliases and marriages, culminating in her relationship with Robert Blake.

Notable Quote:

"She was a con artist basically robbing lonely men of their money with the promise of romance and sex."
(Transcript [MM:SS])

Bakley's manipulative behavior extended to her attempts to secure paternity of Blake’s child, leading to significant strain in their relationship.

The Fateful Night: Murder at Vitello’s

On the night Bonnie Lee Bakley was murdered, she was shot while sitting in the couple’s car at Vitello’s, Robert Blake’s favorite Italian restaurant. Blake had left the car briefly to retrieve his concealed handgun after forgetting it at the restaurant.

Notable Quote:

"When I came back, Bonnie was dying. She had been shot."
(Transcript [MM:SS])

Bakley was pronounced dead from a gunshot wound to the head. Blake reported the incident to a neighbor, Sean Stanek, whose witness account became a crucial part of the investigation.

Investigation and Arrest: The Suspect Emerges

Following the murder, the LAPD immediately considered Blake a suspect due to several red flags:

• Blake was carrying a gun on the night of the murder.
• He left his wife unattended while retrieving his weapon.
• Bakley had a history of manipulating relationships for financial gain.

Despite initial doubts, the investigation heavily centered on Blake, leading to his arrest on charges of soliciting murder and murder with special circumstances.

Notable Quote:

"Without missing a beat, Robert Blake, would you welcome Robert Blake."
(Transcript [MM:SS])

Trial and Public Perception

Robert Blake's trial was a media spectacle reminiscent of the O.J. Simpson trial. His charismatic yet combative demeanor during the Barbara Walters interview further polarized public opinion.

Notable Quote:

"I'm still here, you bastards. I didn't die in that box."
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The prosecution's case hinged on testimony from two retired stuntmen who alleged Blake attempted to hire them to kill Bakley. However, the defense effectively undermined their credibility by highlighting their drug abuse and questionable reliability.

Forensic evidence also played a pivotal role. The murder weapon, a Walther P38, was not the gun Blake was carrying that night, and no gunshot residue was found on Blake, casting doubt on his direct involvement.

Civil Trial and Verdict

In addition to the criminal case, Blake faced a wrongful death lawsuit brought by Bakley's family. The civil trial presented further complexities, including additional witness testimonies that suggested alternative suspects connected to Bakley's past.

Despite the compelling defense, the jury found Blake not guilty in the criminal trial but held him liable in the civil case, awarding significant damages to Bakley's estate.

Notable Quote:

"No, we can’t keep cutting me off. You’re not going to lecture me on the law."
(Transcript [MM:SS])

Alternative Theories and Unanswered Questions

Post-trial, various theories emerged suggesting other possible perpetrators linked to Bakley’s extensive history of cons and manipulations. Notably, connections between Christian Brando and Duffy Hamilton introduced reasonable doubt about Blake's sole culpability.

Notable Quote:

"It's hard not to see how this evidence creates reasonable doubt."
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Despite these theories, key witnesses passed away, and the definitive truth behind Bakley's murder remains elusive.

Aftermath: Life Post-Trial

Following his acquittal, Blake withdrew from acting and faced significant personal and financial struggles. His daughter, Rosie, was raised out of the public eye, and Blake's reputation remained tarnished despite his legal exoneration.

Notable Quote:

"I'm not giving up. I didn't stick a gun in my mouth. I'm not juicing."
(Transcript [MM:SS])

Blake’s life became a poignant narrative of a star fallen from grace, grappling with the shadows of a murder case that defined his legacy.

Conclusion

The True Crime Vault episode on Robert Blake offers a riveting exploration of fame, betrayal, and the quest for justice. It underscores the complexities of high-profile criminal cases and the enduring impact they have on the individuals involved. While Blake was ultimately acquitted, the case remains a subject of intrigue and speculation, emblematic of Hollywood's often murky intersection with true crime.

Note: All timestamps ([MM:SS]) are placeholders and should be adjusted to match the actual transcript segments where the quotes appear.