Last Update on the Left - Episode 5: Mark David Chapman Returns

Release Date: June 23, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Last Update on the Left, hosts Henry Zabrowski, Marcus Parks, and Ben Kissel delve deep into the enigmatic life of Mark David Chapman, the man who forever altered music history by assassinating John Lennon. Exploring both well-known facts and obscure conspiracy theories, the trio seeks to unravel the complexities behind Chapman’s motives, mental state, and the lingering questions that still surround this infamous act.

Mark David Chapman: The Assassin’s Background

The episode kicks off with Henry Zabrowski reminiscing about his mother's memories of John Lennon's assassination. Zabrowski shares an anecdote about his mother's reluctance to attend the tragic event at The Dakota, fearing personal harm:

“She didn’t want to go on the train to go down there to Dakota... She decided she was going to be physically assaulted outside of Central Park.” (00:26)

Marcus Parks provides context about the public’s reaction post-assassination, noting the overwhelming sadness and disbelief that engulfed New York City immediately after Lennon’s death.

Chapman’s Inner World and Obsessions

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Chapman’s troubled psyche. Parks highlights Chapman’s childhood imagination where he believed he could control tiny people, playing Beatles songs for them and punishing them when displeased:

“He called them and he would play Beatles songs for them and he would crush them and kill them when they displeased him.” (04:08)

Henry Zabrowski reflects on juxtaposing his own benign "little guys" with Chapman's sinister inner voices, adding depth to Chapman's disturbed mental landscape.

Conspiracy Theories: MK Ultra and Operation 40

The conversation takes a speculative turn as the hosts explore conspiracy theories linking Chapman to MK Ultra, the CIA’s infamous mind control program. Zabrowski mentions a supposed connection involving a doorman named Jose Perdomo:

“Jose Perdomo... was a member of Operation 40, the secret CIA Cuban assassination team... Chapman is the hypnotized patsy.” (20:07)

They discuss the notion that Chapman was a double agent or a controlled assassin, raising questions about the authenticity of these claims. However, as the episode progresses, the hosts express skepticism regarding the validity of many of these theories.

Chapman’s Trial and Mental State

The trio examines Chapman’s legal battles, focusing on his plea of insanity and the intricacies surrounding his trial. They discuss how Chapman’s fluctuating narratives and claimed divine commands complicated his defense:

“Mark David Chapman said that I was convinced that when I shot John Lennon, I would magically transform into Holden Caulfield... it was not him that actually killed.” (15:12)

They also touch upon Dr. Milton Klein’s involvement, a controversial hypnosis expert whose credentials and influence remain questionable.

Behavior in Prison and Public Perception

Hosts analyze Chapman's behavior post-assassination, including his manipulative actions to maintain notoriety and the impacts on his parole attempts:

“He kept up the act for years and years, and then he just... keep himself relevant because he just goes into prison and it's just quiet.” (36:48)

Ben Kissel comments on the limited interaction Chapman has with his wife due to prison regulations, adding a personal dimension to Chapman’s isolated existence.

The Todd Rundgren Interlude

Throughout the episode, the conversation frequently segues into a tangential yet passionate discussion about musician Todd Rundgren. The hosts explore Rundgren’s influence and speculate on his possible connections to Chapman:

“Todd Rundgren... was the sound engineer for Stage Fright... one of his biggest ones is New York.” (07:32)

They humorously intertwine Rundgren’s musical legacy with the dark narrative of Chapman, though it's clear this segment serves as comic relief amidst the heavy subject matter.

Unveiling Fakery and Reality

As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts acknowledge the challenges in separating fact from fiction in Chapman’s story. They admit that much of the conspiracy-laden information lacks credible evidence:

“Most of the things that we were going to update you on is fake... Except for the facts.” (45:46)

This candid admission underscores the difficulties in discerning truth within the labyrinth of theories surrounding Chapman.

Conclusion and Final Reflections

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts reflect on Chapman's enduring legacy and the unanswered questions that persist decades later. They ponder whether Chapman’s actions were solely a result of insanity or if deeper, more sinister manipulations were at play. The episode ends on a contemplative note, leaving listeners to grapple with the enigmatic figure of Mark David Chapman and the shadows that still linger around his infamous act.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “She didn’t want to go on the train to go down there to Dakota...” — Henry Zabrowski (00:26)
• “He would crush them and kill them when they displeased him.” — Marcus Parks (04:08)
• “Jose Perdomo... was a member of Operation 40...” — Henry Zabrowski (20:07)
• “Mark David Chapman said that I was convinced that when I shot John Lennon, I would magically transform into Holden Caulfield...” — Marcus Parks (15:12)
• “He keeps up the act for years and years... to keep himself relevant.” — Marcus Parks (36:48)
• “Most of the things that we were going to update you on is fake... Except for the facts.” — Henry Zabrowski (45:46)

Final Thoughts

Last Update on the Left delivers a compelling exploration of Mark David Chapman, balancing factual recounting with investigative curiosity. While the episode entertains with its humorous interludes, it remains anchored in the unsettling reality of Chapman’s actions and the pervasive myths that continue to surround them. For those intrigued by true crime and the complexities of the human psyche, this episode offers a thought-provoking listen.

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