Mark "Chopper" Read, one of Australia's most notorious criminals, was known for his violent past and larger-than-life persona. He was involved in organized crime, including stints as a debt collector, hitman, and underworld enforcer, throughout the 1970s and 80s. Despite his criminal activities, Read became a controversial figure in Australian media, gaining notoriety for his bestselling books that chronicled his criminal exploits. While his tales were often exaggerated or self-aggrandized, Read's life offered a glimpse into the dark underworld of Australia's crime scene. His candid recounting of his life led to interviews, public appearances, and even a 2000 film, Chopper, where he was portrayed by actor Eric Bana. Read's stories and charisma fascinated many, but his violent legacy also sparked debate on whether criminals should be celebrated in popular culture. Join Holly & Matthew as they wader through the legacy of Chopper Read, trying to sort fact from fiction, and discuss the morality of venerating a criminal. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.