Dateline NBC: Talking Dateline – Return to the Lake

Episode Release Date: February 19, 2025
Host: Josh Mankiewicz and Craig Melvin
Producer: Carol Gable

Introduction

In the February 19, 2025 episode of Talking Dateline, hosts Josh Mankiewicz and Craig Melvin revisit one of the most harrowing true-crime cases covered by Dateline NBC: the tragic story of Susan Smith, who in 1994 murdered her two young sons. Titled "Return to the Lake," this episode delves deep into the case's enduring impact, featuring exclusive interviews and previously unheard audio clips.

Background of the Susan Smith Case

Josh Mankiewicz introduces the episode by recounting his personal connection to the Susan Smith case. As a 15-year-old in the early '90s, Mankiewicz witnessed the extensive media coverage that consumed much of South Carolina's attention.

[03:24] Craig Melvin: "Well, it was all consuming, man. It was all consuming... Ribbons had gone up all over cities and towns just remembering Michael and Alex."

Mankiewicz reflects on the widespread community mourning and the pervasive media presence that turned the small town of Union, South Carolina, into a focal point of national attention.

Media Portrayal and Public Perception

The hosts discuss how Susan Smith's portrayal in the media garnered public sympathy, partly due to her appearance and demeanor, which contrasted sharply with her heinous actions.

[05:26] Craig Melvin: "She didn't look like someone who might kill their children. She just didn't look the part right...she immediately starts to garner justifiable sympathy."

Mankiewicz points out that initially, Susan seemed credible and cooperative, further misleading the public and investigators.

Investigative Breakthrough and Confession

The conversation shifts to the police investigation, highlighting the pivotal moments that led to Susan Smith's confession. Craig Melvin emphasizes the role of polygraph expert Pete Logan and Sheriff Wells in extracting a confession from Susan.

[07:31] Craig Melvin: "They bring him in, and he decides to work with Sheriff Wells to extract this confession. And it works beautifully."

Mankiewicz notes the lack of modern surveillance technology, which made Susan's deceit more plausible at the time.

[08:35] Craig Melvin: "I found her voice on those tapes chilling."

The hosts reveal newly uncovered audio recordings that provide deeper insight into Susan's state of mind during the investigation.

Impact on David Smith and His Family

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to interviewing Susan Smith's ex-husband, David Smith. Craig Melvin shares poignant moments from the interview, detailing David's profound grief and ongoing battle to keep Susan behind bars.

[17:17] Craig Melvin: "He talked about the two times that he nearly killed himself. He talked about not being able to get out of bed for months and just going to work."

David Smith discusses the relentless public scrutiny and the emotional toll of the case, including unsolicited well-wishes from strangers that forced him to relocate to Florida to find peace.

[20:53] Josh Mankiewicz: "This is not something you get over. It's why I hate the word closure so much."

Smith expresses his fear of Susan's potential release, despite the passage of time, highlighting the perpetual anxiety faced by victims' families.

Law Enforcement's Role and Reflections

The episode features reflections from Mark Keel, Chief of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), who was involved in the search and investigation.

[14:39] Craig Melvin: "When they hoisted that car from John D. Long Lake, they were still strapped in, and they'd been strapped in for nine days."

Keel recounts the emotional strain on law enforcement officers who encountered the lifeless bodies of the children, underscoring the profound human cost of such cases.

Producer Carol Gable’s Involvement and Exclusive Insights

Carol Gable, the Dateline producer who maintained correspondence with Susan Smith for over two decades, joins the conversation to answer listener questions and provide exclusive insights.

[25:46] Carol Gable: "Total remorse, consistent remorse. It's not an excuse, but it's more information."

Gable discusses Susan's letters, revealing a complex psychological profile marked by detachment and lack of empathy, which complicates the narrative of remorse.

Audience Q&A and Social Media Interaction

The hosts address questions from listeners, facilitated by Carol Gable. Topics include the specifics of the 911 call location and the post-trial life of Susan's family.

[27:43] Carol Gable: "Her son is the one who actually called 911. But everything happened near that lake."

Addressing emotional responses from the community and the personal impacts on David Smith's new family life, the discussion highlights the ongoing ripple effects of such tragedies.

Reflections on Long-Term Effects and Lack of Closure

The episode poignantly explores the concept of closure, or the lack thereof, for those left behind. David Smith's struggle with fading memories of his children and the continual threat of Susan's parole hearings illustrate the enduring trauma.

[20:56] Josh Mankiewicz: "It's why I hate the word closure so much. She's locked up and she didn't get parole, but there's no closure here."

Smith's poignant remark about his fading memories underscores the deep psychological scars carried by victims' families.

Conclusion

Talking Dateline: Return to the Lake serves as a comprehensive exploration of the Susan Smith case, examining not only the crime itself but also its lasting impact on the individuals involved and the community at large. Through candid interviews, exclusive audio clips, and thoughtful discussion, the episode offers a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding one of America's most disturbing true-crime stories.

Notable Quotes

• Craig Melvin (05:26): "She didn't look like someone who might kill their children. She just didn't look the part right."
• Craig Melvin (07:31): "They bring him in, and he decides to work with Sheriff Wells to extract this confession. And it works beautifully."
• Craig Melvin (14:39): "When they hoisted that car from John D. Long Lake, they were still strapped in, and they'd been strapped in for nine days."
• Carol Gable (25:46): "Total remorse, consistent remorse. It's not an excuse, but it's more information."
• Josh Mankiewicz (20:56): "It's why I hate the word closure so much. She's locked up and she didn't get parole, but there's no closure here."

Final Thoughts

Return to the Lake not only revisits a painful chapter in true-crime history but also underscores the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable loss. By giving voice to those left behind and shedding light on the intricate details of the case, Dateline NBC continues to honor the memories of Michael and Alex while providing a platform for healing and understanding.

For listeners seeking a deeper dive into this and other true-crime stories, subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free episodes and exclusive content at DatelinePremium.com.