In Conversation with Torben Betts

What really happened to Marilyn Monroe and Lee Harvey Oswald? And how far would you go to uncover the truth?

This episode, we are joined by acclaimed British playwright Torben Betts, whose distinctive blend of dark humour, psychological tension and sharp social observation has made him one of the most compelling voices in contemporary British theatre.

From Invincible and Muswell Hill to Murder in the Dark, Torben reflects on his life, career and fascination with the secrets, contradictions and darker sides of human behaviour. We explore the relationship between comedy and suspense, the challenges of writing for the stage and what continues to inspire his storytelling.

At the heart of our conversation is his latest play, Speculations, receiving its world premiere at London's Marylebone Theatre. Directed by the legendary Sir Trevor Nunn and starring the extraordinary Janie Dee, the production follows American journalist Dorothy Kilgallen as she investigates the mysterious deaths of Marilyn Monroe and Lee Harvey Oswald.

Torben reveals what drew him to Kilgallen's extraordinary story, the research that took him deep into the world of political intrigue and conspiracy theories, and the delicate balance between historical fact and dramatic fiction.

We also discuss collaborating with Sir Trevor Nunn, seeing Janie Dee bring Dorothy Kilgallen to life, and whether a good playwright needs to be just a little bit paranoid.

A fascinating conversation about theatre, truth, power and the stories that refuse to stay buried.