New From Serial: ‘The Idiot’
How did M. Gessen’s least favorite cousin end up on trial for murder for hire?
Audio
March 26, 2026

For decades, the Times writer M. Gessen saw their cousin Allen as a fool, a pompous “international businessman” who bragged about shady deals. Then Allen was accused of trying to put a hit out on his ex-wife. M. couldn’t wrap their head around the news. Allen’s just an idiot, right? Not a would-be murderer?

You can listen to the new five-part series of “The Idiot” now.

John Currin

FROM SERIAL PRODUCTIONS: THE IDIOT

The Idiot: Chapter 1

The Times writer M. Gessen always disliked their younger cousin Allen. Then he did something so bad, even M. was surprised — and they realized they didn’t know Allen at all.

Listen to the full series here.

A place to listen, now in The New York Times app.
Explore podcasts and narrated articles to help you make sense of the news, all in the Listen tab. Download the app.

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