The television network HBO has scheduled the premiere of its new five-part original documentary series titled Monsters of God. The investigative project is produced by Goode Films, A24, and Central Pictures.
The documentary series is directed by filmmaker Eric Goode, who previously directed Chimp Crazy and Tiger King. The production held its world premiere at the 2026 SXSW Film and TV Festival, where it was awarded the TV Premiere Audience Award.
The series scheduled its global broadcast debut for Thursday, August 6, at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO, and it will be available to stream simultaneously on Max. Subsequent episodes are scheduled to air weekly on Thursdays in the same time slot through September 3, 2026.
The narrative explores the underground network of exotic animal smuggling, focusing on a multi-billion-dollar criminal enterprise centered around rare reptiles. The production traces the evolution of this trade over multiple decades as participants bypassed the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
The individual episodes document specific historical investigations and figures within the industry, starting with an early trafficking case involving rival dealers Hank Molt and Tommy Crutchfield. Later episodes outline federal law enforcement actions, including the involvement of Miami figure Mario Tabraue, a smuggling operation run by Ray and Mike Van Nostrand, and an international network led by Malaysian dealer Anson Wong.
The production features interviews with former special agents from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, federal prosecutors, and customs agents. Additional participants include author Bryan Christy, former DEA agent Larry Loveless, investigative journalist Steve Chao, and various zoo officials and snake breeders.
The project is executive produced by Jeremy McBride, Eric Goode, Harry Go, Emily Osborne, Nicole Stott, Ronald Bronstein, Eli Bush, Josh Safdie, and Kevin Turen. Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller, and Tina Nguyen serve as executive producers for HBO.
Monsters of God trailer
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