By: Toni Fitzgerald
Chris Hansen's *To Catch a Predator* was a highly popular *Dateline NBC* segment from 2004-2007, captivating millions by exposing alleged child predators through online stings. Hansen's quiet, interrogative style made for compelling, high-rated television. However, the show's ethical practices faced intense scrutiny after an assistant district attorney committed suicide following a 2006 sting operation. This tragedy, along with lawsuits and advertiser concerns, led to the program's cancellation in 2007. A new film, *Primetime*, starring Robert Pattinson as Hansen, now re-examines this controversial era, exploring the complex ethical questions surrounding the show and its blurred lines between journalism and vigilante justice.

















