Heading 1: Clash of Visions Leads to Fatal Consequences
In the late 1980s, the Chippendales empire faced a dark chapter. Somen “Steve” Banerjee, the man behind the male revue sensation, found himself at odds with choreographer Nick De Noia. Their disagreement on the essence of Chippendales—models versus show quality—led to a bitter split, setting the stage for a tragic turn of events.
Heading 2: A Risky Gamble and a Deadly Decision
Banerjee, favoring looks over production, retained the Chippendales clubs, while De Noia gained control of the lucrative touring show. However, Banerjee’s gamble backfired as the touring show proved more profitable. Faced with rising competition and regret over his choice, Banerjee resorted to extreme measures to reclaim the touring rights.
Heading 3: Murder-for-Hire Unfolds in Shadows
In a shocking twist, Banerjee orchestrated the murder of De Noia, hiring a hitman named Ray Colon to carry out the chilling act. De Noia was fatally shot in his New York office, and Banerjee seemed to have successfully severed ties with the touring show’s creator. The sinister plot unfolded without a direct link to Banerjee, who went on to purchase the touring rights for a significant sum.
Heading 4: Suspicion Grows, Secrets Unravel
Despite Banerjee’s apparent success, De Noia’s family became suspicious, sensing a connection to the unsolved murder. As Chippendales Universal changed hands for a million dollars, the shadows of doubt loomed over Banerjee. The twist in the tale came when a hired hitman, Strawberry, turned whistleblower, exposing the dark secrets and connecting the dots.
Heading 5: The FBI Steps In
With the revelation of Banerjee’s involvement in the murder-for-hire plots, the FBI took action. Collaborating with Ray Colon, they pinned both the murder of De Noia and the sinister plans on the Chippendales founder. A pivotal conversation between Banerjee and Colon, recorded in Switzerland, laid bare the truth. Banerjee’s confession sealed his fate.
Heading 6: Justice Delayed, Justice Denied
Banerjee’s arrest in 1993 marked the beginning of the end for the Chippendales mastermind. Pleading guilty, he awaited sentencing for De Noia’s murder. However, justice was never served, as Banerjee met his tragic end in jail a year later, leaving a dark legacy behind.
This chilling tale of betrayal, greed, and murder unveils the sinister underbelly of the glamorous Chippendales empire, reminding us that success can sometimes come at a devastating cost.