True Tales of Revenge, Volume 3: Orson Welles vs. William Randolph Hearst

True Tales of Revenge, Volume 3: Orson Welles vs. William Randolph Hearst

From Midnight Facts for Insomniacs by Shane Rogers

May 21, 2026 · 43 min · Episode 381

About this episode

The episode explores the legendary feud between Orson Welles and William Randolph Hearst, highlighting the drama surrounding the making of Citizen Kane.

Power, ego, and one of the most legendary media grudges in Hollywood history. This week, Shane and Duncan dive into the explosive feud between Orson Welles and William Randolph Hearst, from the making of Citizen Kane to the full-court press to destroy it. Newspapers, blacklists, threats, and enough spite to power a small city. Hollywood has always loved a drama queen. ~Become an Insomniac! Join the Midnight Masses by supporting the show on PATREON and unlock exclusive bonus content.~Join the community, chat with fellow insomniacs, and vote on episode topics via DISCORD~Send Shane and Duncan a message at midnightfactsforinsomniacs@gmail.com~Rep the show! Grab a tee or mug at the MIDNIGHT MERCH store and spread the word.~Follow us on INSTAGRAM

People in this episode

Hosts: Shane, Duncan

Topics covered

  • revenge
  • Hollywood feuds
  • media history
  • Citizen Kane
  • Orson Welles
  • William Randolph Hearst

Keywords

  • revenge
  • Hollywood
  • Orson Welles
  • William Randolph Hearst
  • Citizen Kane
  • media grudges
  • blacklists

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Citizen Kane

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