Reel Victims

Reel Victims
Podcast Description
Reel Victims – Where True Crime Meets Hollywood
Hosted by Daniel Catullo and Justin Shepherd, Reel Victims pulls back the curtain on the most gripping true crime stories ever turned into films. We’re not just breaking down the movies—we’re bringing you firsthand accounts from the victims and those closest to the case, revealing what’s real, what’s fiction, and everything in between.
Some episodes will be wild and fun, others deep and intense—but every single one will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is true crime like you’ve never experienced before.
Hit follow, turn on notifications, and get ready to see the real stories behind the silver screen.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast delves into themes such as the accurate and inaccurate portrayals of true crime in films, societal issues related to domestic violence, and the impact of social media on real cases. Notable episodes include a detailed examination of the Gabby Petito story, discussing media inaccuracies, domestic violence awareness, and law enforcement failures in her case.

Reel Victims – Where True Crime Meets Hollywood Hosted by Daniel Catullo and Justin Shepherd, Reel Victims pulls back the curtain on the most gripping true crime stories ever turned into films. We’re not just breaking down the movies—we’re bringing you firsthand accounts from the victims and those closest to the case, revealing what’s real, what’s fiction, and everything in between. Some episodes will be wild and fun, others deep and intense—but every single one will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is true crime like you’ve never experienced before. Hit follow, turn on notifications, and get ready to see the real stories behind the silver screen.
The Gabby Petito Story – A Deep Dive with Nicki & Jim Schmidt & Rose Davis
In this powerful episode of Reel Victims, hosts Daniel Catullo & Justin Shepherd sit down with Gabby Petito’s parents, Nikki & Jim Schmidt, and her best friend, Rose Davis, for an in-depth conversation about the media portrayal of Gabby’s case. Together, they dissect the Lifetime movie The Gabby Petito Story, revealing the inaccuracies, the emotional toll it took on them, and the lessons it failed to teach about domestic violence. They also discuss the ongoing efforts of the Gabby Petito Foundation to support victims and implement real change in domestic violence policies nationwide.
💔 The Reality Behind the Movie – The Lifetime film took extreme creative liberties, distorting the truth of Gabby’s life and the tragic events that unfolded.
📢 The Power & Pitfalls of Social Media – While social media helped bring attention to Gabby’s case, it also fueled misinformation, conspiracy theories, and relentless harassment toward her loved ones.
🚨 Domestic Violence & Law Enforcement Failures – The police mishandled Gabby’s case, overlooking clear signs of abuse and failing to protect her when it mattered most.
🛑 The Dangers of Strangulation in Abuse Cases – Strangulation is a major red flag in domestic violence, increasing the risk of homicide by 750%. Better training for law enforcement and first responders is critical.
🤝 How the Gabby Petito Foundation is Driving Change – From pushing for domestic violence policy reform to providing training for first responders, Gabby’s family is committed to making a difference.
📞 Resources for Victims – If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation, reach out for help. Support organizations like the Gabby Petito Foundation work tirelessly to provide education, advocacy, and resources.
🔗 Visit GabbyPetitoFoundation.org to learn more, donate, or get involved.
Follow
Reel Victims:
https://www.instagram.com/reel_victims/
https://www.tiktok.com/@reel_victims?_t=ZT-8uAeRkxmVMk&_r=1
Justin:
https://www.instagram.com/justinthenickofcrime/
https://www.tiktok.com/@justinthenickofcrime?_t=ZT-8uAebWzQVh8&_r=1
Dan:
https://www.instagram.com/dc3director/
https://www.tiktok.com/@danielcatullo?_t=ZT-8uAecsnsel8&_r=1
YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@ReelVictims
www.ReelVictims.com
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Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
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