Nat Geo presents a three-part documentary series, “Cursed Gold: A Shipwreck Scandal,” debuting on Wednesday, August 21, at 8 p.m. The series, based on a New York Times bestseller, recounts the remarkable and tumultuous story of maverick scientist Tommy Thompson.
Across the three episodes, all of which air on the same evening, viewers will journey through 30 years, starting with Thompson’s recovery of three tons of gold from the 1857 shipwreck, SS Central America, with the help of a resourceful team. This achievement earned him worldwide admiration.
However, the series also explores the darker events that led Thompson from celebration to infamy and, ultimately, prison. “Cursed Gold: A Shipwreck Scandal” examines the personal turmoil and deception in Thompson’s life post-discovery.
