Josh Gates, the intrepid host of Discovery’s Expedition Files, isn’t one to shy away from a good mystery, and this Wednesday’s episode, “Tragic Endings,” offers a triple dose of enigmatic events. From ancient curses to modern-day disappearances, Gates tackles a trio of tragic tales that have baffled investigators for years.
First up is the infamous curse of King Tutankhamun. While the notion of a pharaoh’s wrath might seem like the stuff of Hollywood fiction, Gates takes a serious look at the untimely deaths of several individuals connected to the discovery of Tut’s tomb in 1922. Did a vengeful spirit exact its revenge, or were these unfortunate incidents mere coincidence? Gates sifts through the evidence, seeking a more plausible explanation for the so-called curse.
Next, Gates turns his attention to a far more recent tragedy: the Dyatlov Pass incident. In 1959, nine experienced hikers perished under mysterious circumstances in the Ural Mountains. Their tent was found sliced open from the inside, and the bodies scattered across the snowy landscape, some bearing strange injuries. Gates examines the various theories, from avalanches to military testing, seeking to uncover the truth behind this enduring enigma.
Finally, Gates takes on a case ripped from today’s headlines: the disappearance of an influencer in the Nevada desert. This contemporary mystery brings a chilling real-world element to the episode. As Gates follows the trail of clues, he illustrates the complexities of search and rescue operations in harsh environments and the challenges of online sleuthing in the age of social media.
“Tragic Endings” looks to be a compelling blend of historical investigation and contemporary true crime, all tied together by Gates’ signature blend of curiosity and determination.
Expedition Files airs Wednesdays at 9:00 PM on Discovery.
