75 years ago, a viral TV moment ignited America’s obsession with the Mafia

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March 16, 2026

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editor@creativeunderworld.com

Frank Costello, the powerful New York crime figure, sits patiently during testimony before the Kefauver Senate investigating committee in 1951.

Crooked contracts, bribery, shady characters. In 1951, millions tuned in to watch the Kefauver organized crime hearings, showing the power of television.

(Image credit: Bettmann Archive)