The Lady and the Dale
This documentary series explores an audacious 1970s auto scam centered around mysterious transgender entrepreneur Elizabeth Carmichael, who rose to prominence when she released the Dale, a fuel-efficient three-wheeled vehicle during the 1970s gas crisis.
Overview
This documentary series explores an audacious 1970s auto scam centered around mysterious transgender entrepreneur Elizabeth Carmichael, who rose to prominence when she released the Dale, a fuel-efficient three-wheeled vehicle during the 1970s gas crisis.
Nancy Abraham
Creator / EP
Madison Passarelli
Producer
Episodes
1. Soldier of Fortune
Meet Liz Carmichael, trailblazing promoter of the fuel-efficient car of the future: The Dale. Just as publicity for the three-wheeled automobile reaches its peak, Liz, a trans woman, is outed as a fugitive who's spent the last several decades running from the law with her wife Vivian and their five children. As Liz's family and friends guide us through her chaotic yet riveting life, we learn how it all came to a crashing halt with the 1974 rise of The Dale.
2. Caveat Emptor: Buyer Beware
With Liz at the helm, the 20th Century Motor Car Company launches The Dale, which soon takes on a life of its own. Investigative reporters question the operation and its leader, leading to government attempts to reign in Liz's sales practices, upheaval at the company, and a fatal shooting.
3. The Guilty Fleeth
Just as Liz moves the company to Dallas, news breaks of a murder at the 20th Century Motor Car Company showroom. As the press turns on her and law enforcement begins to close in, Liz once again goes on the lam. But she's soon found and subjected to mounting media scrutiny, transphobia, and a lengthy, unpredictable trial.
Cast & Crew
Elizabeth Carmichael
Self (archive footage)
Susan Stryker
Self
