Documentary explores entertainment moguls' ties to organized crime and politics since 1929

In a gripping exploration of the intersection between entertainment and organized crime, a recent discussion delved into the historical influence of mobsters on American politics and culture. The narrative traces back to 1929, highlighting the notorious creation of Murder Inc. by mob bosses Meyer Lansky and Lucky Luciano, which became a lethal arm of the National Crime Syndicate, responsible for countless murders.

The saga continues with Frank Sinatra's entanglement with the Genovese crime family, notably when underboss Willie Moretti used intimidation to extricate Sinatra from a detrimental music contract. This relationship allegedly left Sinatra with a lifelong debt to the mob. The meeting also noted Sinatra's controversial connections, including a 1947 trip to Cuba where he delivered $2 million to Luciano, further intertwining his fate with organized crime.

As the narrative unfolds, it reveals the mafia's significant role in Cuba during the 1950s, profiting from the country's gambling and music scene under the regime of dictator Batista. However, the rise of Fidel Castro and his successful revolution in 1959 marked a turning point, leading to the mafia's decline in Cuba.

The discussion also touched on Sinatra's political maneuvering, including his pivotal role in securing votes for John F. Kennedy in Illinois, which raised eyebrows due to allegations of election rigging. Following Kennedy's election, a series of failed assassination attempts on Castro were revealed, showcasing the deep ties between the entertainment industry and political machinations.

The narrative shifts to the 1980s, introducing Lyric Cohen, a figure with Israeli ties who rose to prominence in the music industry. His controversial dealings, including accusations of money laundering and connections to crime bosses, echo the earlier themes of exploitation and manipulation within the entertainment sector.

As the meeting concluded, it became clear that the legacy of organized crime's influence on American politics and culture remains a potent and complex story, intertwining the lives of entertainers and mobsters across decades. The implications of these connections continue to resonate, raising questions about the ethics of power and influence in both the entertainment industry and political landscape.