The Hoax

In 1971, McGraw-Hill executives show interest in Clifford Irving's novel *Rudnick's Problem*, following the disappointing reception of his previous work, *Fake!*. Despite Irving's hopes for success, the publisher decides against its release due to an unsatisfactory review from a Life editor.

During a vacation with friend Richard Suskind, Clifford Irving faces an abrupt evacuation from their hotel at the order of the eccentric billionaire Howard Hughes. This unexpected disruption forces Irving and Suskind to return to New York City earlier than planned.

Back in New York, Irving grows frustrated with the lack of attention from the publisher's executives and storms into a boardroom. He boldly claims to have a project that could be the 'book of the century,' challenging them to take him seriously.

While searching for a compelling subject, Irving stumbles upon a cover story about Howard Hughes. Instantly captivated by Hughes's reclusive nature and wealth, he decides to pursue him as the focus for his new work.

Irving fabricates a story claiming that Hughes has commissioned him to write his autobiography, presenting forged handwritten notes as evidence. To his shock, handwriting experts authenticate these notes, leading McGraw-Hill to seal a $500,000 deal for the book.

As Irving's professional life flourishes, his personal life deteriorates due to marital problems with his artist wife, Edith, intensified by his affair with Nina van Pallandt. Despite this, Irving reassures Edith of his loyalty while conducting research trips with Richard Suskind.

Irving and Suskind undertake exhaustive research into Hughes's life, even resorting to illegally obtaining a draft biography from one of Hughes's former aides. They gather extensive information, solidifying the fabrications they plan to present.

Irving receives a mysterious box containing scandalous information about potential illegality involving Hughes and President Nixon. Convinced this is a sign of Hughes's support, Irving seamlessly weaves this sensitive information into his manuscript.

As the publication date approaches, Irving stages a fake meeting between the publishers and Hughes to validate the authenticity of his work. Despite Hughes publicly denying any connection to the book, McGraw-Hill executives remain optimistic about its potential success.

Irving negotiates additional payments for himself while plotting with Edith to deposit a check labeled 'H. R. Hughes' into a Swiss bank account created under a false identity, 'Helga R. Hughes.' This scheme reflects their growing desperation as tensions mount.

As the pressure of the deception takes a toll, Irving spirals into paranoia, grappling with guilt from his affair and the length he must go to maintain appearances with Edith. The mounting stress clouds his judgment and heightens his anxiety.

Following a televised conference call where Hughes vehemently denies any association with the book, Irving finds himself engulfed in despair and hopelessness. This public repudiation challenges the credibility of his fabricated narrative.

After the truth begins to unravel, Irving is arrested and attempts to negotiate immunity for Edith in exchange for his cooperation. The gravity of the deception and the consequences of their actions start to feel inevitable.

In the aftermath of the scandal, Irving, Edith, and Suskind receive only minor sentences for their fabrications. The legal outcomes highlight the risks associated with their ambitious and dishonest project.

A radio broadcast hints at favorable legal rulings for Hughes, leading Irving to ponder the potential entanglement of his book with President Nixon's administration. This suggests that Hughes's story might have unforeseen implications tied to the Watergate scandal.