48 Hours Tonight: “The Case of the Black Swan” September 7 2024

CBS’s 48 HOURS is set to dive deep into the dramatic murder trial of former ballerina and bikini model Ashley Benefield in a special two-part series titled “The Case of the Black Swan.” The episodes air on Saturday, September 7, with the first part from 9:00 to 10:00 PM ET and the second from 10:00 to 11:00 PM ET/PT on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.

Benefield is on trial for the shooting death of her estranged husband, Doug Benefield, which occurred in 2021. During the trial, Benefield has testified that she shot her husband in self-defense, claiming he had tried to poison her while she was pregnant and was abusive. Prosecutors argue that her actions were premeditated, intended to secure sole custody of their daughter by killing Doug Benefield.

The case has drawn notable comparisons to the dark and complex narrative of the film “Black Swan,” with its blend of glamour, scandal, and a tumultuous relationship. Benefield’s story of a swift romance—married just 13 days after meeting her husband—adds another layer to the intrigue. At the time of their marriage, Benefield was 24 and Doug was 54, a widower. The dramatic turn of events unfolded four years later with his death.

Jim Axelrod reports on the latest developments in this high-profile case, providing viewers with an in-depth look at Benefield’s courtroom testimony and the contrasting perspectives of the prosecution. The series promises to offer a thorough exploration of a case that has captured public fascination.