Octavia Spencer Discusses True-Crime Series Highlighting Alaska’s Missing Indigenous Women

During a THR Presents session sponsored by Investigation Discovery, Octavia Spencer detailed the motivations behind the true-crime series “Lost Women of Alaska.” The documentary focuses on the killings of Alaska Native women Kathleen Jo Henry and Veronica Abouchuk by Brian Steven Smith, who is serving a 226-year prison term. Spencer pointed out the staggering figure of roughly 1,300 missing persons in Alaska, with only about 100 cases receiving active attention, underscoring systemic bias against Indigenous and sex-worker populations.

She also mentioned ongoing investigations into possible additional crimes by Smith in Alaska and his native South Africa, though no concrete evidence has emerged. Emphasizing that the series is not meant for entertainment, Spencer described it as a means to amplify the victims’ voices, support their families, and promote community vigilance and legal reforms. The interview coincided with Spencer’s second Emmy nomination for narration, which she views as recognition of the women’s stories rather than personal achievement.