HBO's 'Murder in Glitterball City' Examines U.S. Crystal Meth Crisis

A new documentary series now streaming on HBO Max is bringing international attention to a largely forgotten American true crime case with deep connections to the opioid and methamphetamine crisis that continues to ravage communities across the United States.

'Murder in Glitterball City,' which premiered on February 19, 2026, is a two-part investigation into the 2010 murder of James Carroll—known as Jamie—in Louisville, Kentucky. The series examines not only the crime itself but also the broader social context: the role of crystal methamphetamine in the city's LGBTQ+ community and how addiction fueled a climate of violence.

The killing took place at 1435 South Fourth Street in Louisville, involving property owner Jeffrey Mundt and his partner Joseph Banis (Joey). While specific details about motive and circumstances remain limited in available English-language reporting, the documentary draws from David Dominé's 2021 non-fiction book 'A Dark Room in Glitter Ball City,' suggesting a comprehensive narrative approach to the case.

The production brings together notable creative talent. World of Wonder—the production company behind the hugely successful 'RuPaul's Drag Race' franchise—developed the series. It was directed and produced by Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, the studio's founders, with Mona Card as producer. Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller, and Sara Rodriguez serve as executive producers, lending the project the polish and resources of one of North America's leading documentary production companies.

The two episodes aired back-to-back on HBO Max, with Part 1 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT and Part 2 at 8:20 p.m. ET/PT. The series carries a TV-MA rating, reflecting its mature content and unflinching examination of drug use, violence, and death.