Story perspectives

Netflix Documentary Celebrates Seymour Hersh's Legacy of Truth

2/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Netflix documentary Cover-Up centers on Seymour Hersh, an influential investigative journalist, tracing his six-decade career from My Lai to Abu Ghraib.
Laura Poitras and Mark Obenhaus directed the film, which recounts Hersh's triumphs and missteps, including a chapter retracted for forged documents.
At 88, Hersh reflects on his pursuit of truth and accountability.
The documentary emphasizes investigative reporting's importance amid declining trust and premieres in late 2025 with acclaim.

History

Historical Context

The My Lai Massacre on March 16, 1968, involved U.S. soldiers killing 504 Vietnamese civilians in Son My, revealing the brutal realities of the Vietnam War. Investigative journalist Seymour Hersh's exposure of the event sparked public outrage and shifted perceptions of the war. Today, Haeberle's photographs remain a powerful symbol of the need for accountability in journalism and military conduct.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Netflix documentary Cover-Up centers on Seymour Hersh, an influential investigative journalist, tracing his six-decade career from My Lai to Abu Ghraib.
Laura Poitras and Mark Obenhaus directed the film, which recounts Hersh's triumphs and missteps, including a chapter retracted for forged documents.
At 88, Hersh reflects on his pursuit of truth and accountability.
The documentary emphasizes investigative reporting's importance amid declining trust and premieres in late 2025 with acclaim.

1 / 2