True crime fans can now stream the documentary series 'An Amputation Obsession: The Monster and the Surgeon' on Prime Video, released today (August 13). The two-part special explores the real-life case of Neil Hopper, a vascular surgeon from Cornwall who had both of his legs amputated.
The double life of Neil Hopper
Hopper initially claimed a mystery illness caused the injuries to his legs, gaining attention across the UK as a symbol of hope and bravery. However, the dark reality of his actions soon emerged. A whistle-blower exposed an underground network devoted to extreme body modifications, leading police to learn about Hopper's double life as a surgeon who performed hundreds of amputations on NHS patients.
In 2019, Hopper deliberately caused irreversible damage to his legs, resulting in the amputation of both limbs. He then claimed hundreds of thousands of pounds in fraudulent insurance payouts.
Interviews and warning
The documentary features interviews with journalists who covered the story at the time, as well as Hopper's former colleagues who he deceived. At the start of the programme, a warning states: "The following programme contains material that some viewers may find upsetting. Viewer discretion is advised."
Journalist Olivier Vergnault for Cornwall Live is heard saying: "In fact, this story turned out to be so dark, mindboggling and bizarre. I would not have believed you if you'd said this is a novel." He added: "We all have a vision in our heads of what a criminal is, Neil Hopper didn't fit that bill."
The case has been dubbed similar to 'Jekyll and Hyde', with Hopper's dual personalities stunning the nation. Viewers will learn more about the bizarre case and potentially why Hopper did what he did. 'An Amputation Obsession: The Monster and the Surgeon' is now streaming on Prime Video.
