The Butterfly King

When King Boris III of Bulgaria dies in mysterious circumstances in the middle of the bloodiest war in history, there’s no shortage of suspects. But almost a century on, his death remains unsolved.

Becky Milligan follows a trail of dissidents, poisoners, soldiers and spies to unpick eighty years of lies and cover-ups. She even gets evidence from King Boris’ children, King Simeon and Princess Maria Luisa, who lives have been shaped by their father’s terrible final days. It’s a gripping story of treachery and deceit as well as the tragic family saga of a doomed royal dynasty. Who killed the Butterfly King?

Listeners can anticipate an exhilarating journey merging investigative journalism, firsthand narratives and expert analysis to unravel the enigmas and controversies surrounding the unsolved death of the Butterfly King.  Becky Milligan and Emma Jane Kirby bring a distinctive combination of skills and experience to the case, providing a unique perspective on this enduring mystery.

Beginning on March 21st, “The Butterfly King” will be available to listeners on all major podcast platforms with new episodes released weekly.

The Butterfly King won Gold Best Artwork at the 2024 Signal Awards, as well as the Listener’s Choice Award.

Credits

Host: Becky Milligan

Producer and Writer: Emma Jane Kirby

Executive Producer: Laurence Grissell and Rosie Pye

Managing Producer: Amica Sciortino Nowlan

Sound Design and Engineering: Toby Matimong and Daniel Lloyd-Evans

Original Music: Daniel Lloyd-Evans, Louis Nanke-Mannell, Toby Matimong

Artwork: Vanessa Lilac

Inspired by the book Hilter and King by John Hall Spencer