Does Buster Murdaugh support his dad? Alex Murdaugh's awkward 42-second jail call with son hints at tumultuous relationship
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA: A newly released audio recording of a jailhouse phone call unveils an uncomfortable conversation between convicted killer Alex Murdaugh and his surviving son Buster. During the call, which took place on May 16, Alex, who is serving two consecutive life sentences for the murders of his wife, Maggie, and younger son, Paul, expressed his love for Buster.
Despite Buster's unwavering support for his father throughout the murder trial, attending all court dates and providing testimony in his defense, his swift disconnection from the call raises questions about his level of support. It seemed evident that Buster was eager to end the conversation, leaving room for speculation regarding his true stance on his convicted father's actions.
(Maggie Murdaugh/FB)
Does Buster Murdaugh support his father Alex Murdaugh?
Buster's unwavering support for his father during the murder trial was evident through his attendance at every court date and his testimony in his father's defense. Prior to the trial, when asked about his support for his father, Buster vehemently rejected any assumptions made by the media.
(South Carolina Dept of Corrections)
In a November 2022 interview with Daily Mail, Buster firmly stated, "You have no right to presume anything... I don't want to see it written anywhere that I'm supporting my father." Despite maintaining a public front of support, Buster was clear about his desire to distance himself from any presumption of support for his father's actions.
'So proud of you!'
In the released phone call, as per New York Post, Murdaugh initiated the conversation by greeting Buster with a casual, "Hey buddy." “Hey, I don’t have a whole lot of time,” Buster responds quickly. “I just boarded a ferry to get back to the Hilton Head Island from Daufuskie [Island].” “Yeah I know, I – I have been trying to call. I was supposed to call you while you were with Jim, um, about this meeting,” Murdaugh then said, apparently referring to his attorney Jim Griffin. “But anyway. How about [you] text him and let him know I’m trying to call him?” “Mm-kay,” Buster replied.
“Did he talk to you about that? About the thing, about [inaubile],” Murdaugh said as the line cracked. “No, I can’t really understand you either,” Buster answered. “Alright, alright. I’m gonna, um, I’m going to leave word with Jim and he’ll be in touch with you,” Murdaugh told his son. “Love you.” “Alright. Love you too,” Buster said flatly and quickly after a poignant pause. “So proud of you,” Murdaugh added. “Thanks,” Buster said before disconnecting the call. The total conversation between father and son took just 42 seconds.