Lexington, S.C. – Several members of the team handling the upcoming retrial of former attorney Alex Murdaugh have reportedly provided exclusive footage to documentary filmmakers for use in short promotional videos, known in the industry as “sizzle reels.” The clips, which appear to feature prosecutors and a lead paralegal in provocative attire, have sparked criticism from the presiding judge and raised questions about the propriety of using ongoing criminal proceedings for media promotion.
What the reels contain
According to sources familiar with the matter, the reels combine music, graphics and brief excerpts of behind‑the‑scenes footage. They include appearances by state grand jury chief and lead prosecutor Creighton Waters and his top paralegal, Carly Jewell. Some observers who have viewed the material described Jewell’s segments as “provocative” and “risqué,” suggesting she was filmed in various states of undress.
How the footage was obtained
Richmond, Virginia author Eliza Broadbent first reported the existence of the reels on November 9, 2026, citing rumors that the prosecution had granted an unnamed documentary company “exclusive, behind‑the‑scenes access” to trial preparation. Additional sources indicated multiple production companies were competing for the rights to such access, though no formal agreement has been confirmed.
Judicial response
South Carolina circuit court judge Debra McCaslin, who will preside over the retrial scheduled to begin April 5, 2027, warned that the courtroom must not become a platform for publicity. “I will not allow these proceedings to become a circus, and I will not permit anyone involved in this case to use this courtroom as a platform for publicity or theatrics,” McCaslin said at a hearing last month. While her comments were initially directed at defense counsel, the revelation of the promotional videos could place the prosecution under similar scrutiny.
Official statements
Attorney General spokesperson Robert Kittle responded to Broadbent’s story, stating, “We’re not promoting a behind‑the‑scenes documentary. It would go against ethics.” The attorney general’s office has not provided further comment, and the prosecutor’s office has not confirmed or denied the existence of the reels.
Defense reaction
Attempts to reach lead defense attorney Dick Harpootlian for comment on the videos have been unsuccessful. The defense team reportedly received links to the clips from a source close to the attorney general’s office, but no official response has been issued.
Upcoming hearing
Prosecutors and defense attorneys are scheduled to appear in Lexington on November 13, 2026, for a pre‑trial hearing on the defense’s motion to dismiss the murder indictments on grounds of alleged investigative and prosecutorial misconduct. FITSNews will be live‑streaming the hearing.
Background on the case
Alex Murdaugh was convicted in early 2023 of the June 7, 2021 murders of his wife, Maggie Murdaugh, 52, and son, Paul Murdaugh, 22. The convictions were overturned in May 2026 after the South Carolina Supreme Court identified numerous trial‑conduct issues, including alleged jury tampering. The retrial will take place in Sumter County.
Implications
If prosecutors are found to have participated in promotional activities that could influence public perception, the ethical standards governing South Carolina’s legal system may come under review. The judge’s earlier warning underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the courtroom and preventing the case from becoming a media spectacle.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
