This podcast explores the controversial lawyer Adam Waldman's ties to powerful figures and his role in online abuse towards Amber Heard. It uncovers complex relationships, manipulative legal tactics, and the impact of edited evidence on public perception.
Julian's work for PR firms blurred lines between journalism, fake news, and PR.
Adam Waldman's tactics in defending Depp raised questions about his role in shaping public narratives.
Deep dives
Julian's Phantom Journalism for a French PR Firm
Julian, a journalist writing under a pseudonym, penned articles for a French PR firm about various global topics from human rights in Qatar to the presidential elections in African nations. His work, appearing as genuine news articles in major publications like the Huffington Post, was authored under fake identities to appear expert and impartial, blurring the lines between PR, fake news, and journalism.
Julian's Involvement in Shaping Public Perception for Companies
Julian's journalistic work extended to crafting stories for companies like Rusal during the Ebola crisis in Guinea. He was tasked with lauding the company's role in vaccinating the population, framing it as a public relations triumph. This involvement reveals a behind-the-scenes manipulation of public perception through strategically crafted narratives.
Adam Waldman's Role in Johnny Depp's Legal Battles and Online Trolling
Adam Waldman's influence in Johnny Depp's legal strategy shifted the actor's approach from ignoring criticism to aggressive lawsuits. Waldman's tactics in defending Depp, including online targeting and manipulation of evidence, garnered criticism from the court and opposing legal teams. His connections to controversial figures like Oleg Deripaska and Sergei Lavrov raise questions about his dual role as a lawyer and online participant in shaping public narratives.
Online Trolls, Misinformation, and Implications for Democracy
The podcast delves into the darker side of online trolling, highlighting the coordinated efforts of trolls, bots, and influencers in attacking individuals like Amber Heard. The intersection of disinformation, celebrity disputes, and political implications underscores the threat of manipulated online narratives on public opinion and democratic processes. By exposing the intricate web of misinformation and its effects on perception, the podcast raises concerns about the erosion of trust in digital information and its impact on future elections and public discourse.
Johnny Depp’s maverick lawyer Adam Waldman finally comes under scrutiny. Alexi uncovers Waldman’s links to powerful figures and investigates his role in feeding online abuse. Can the team get to the truth about who trolled Amber?
Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists
Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free content
Become a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and more
If you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com