Mr. Apology
Summary
This episode of Criminal explores the story of Alan Bridge, an artist who created the "Apology Line," a hotline where strangers could confess crimes and secrets to a tape recorder. Host Phoebe Judge interviews Alan’s widow, Marissa Bridge, and former callers about the unique community that formed around these anonymous confessions. The narrative covers the line's evolution from a personal project to a public art installation, the ethical dilemmas Alan faced, and his tragic death in 1995.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and introduction to the episode
Marissa meets Alan and discovers the Apology Line
Alan's background and the launch of the hotline
The variety of confessions and the weight of the calls
Sponsors: Squarespace and Ritual
Police involvement and the New Museum art installation
Creating a virtual community via outgoing messages
The obsession with 'Richie,' the serial killer caller
Sponsors: Kachava and Wayfair
Caller Gladys Godiva and the power of anonymous confession
The magazine, internet expansion, and helping caller Ricky
Alan's tragic death and the community's response
The lasting impact of the Apology Line
Outro, credits, and final sponsors
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