The Story Last man standing - The Sunday Story
Mar 1, 2026
Anthony Lloyd, a veteran war correspondent for The Times, leads an investigation into the disappearance of British photojournalist John Cantlie. The conversation covers Cantlie’s appearances in ISIS propaganda. It explores why Cantlie alone remained unaccounted for and recounts the dangers and key moments leading up to his disappearance.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
How ISIS Used Execution Videos As Spectacle
- ISIS weaponised filmed executions to create a cycle of terror and spectacle that targeted Western publics.
- Anthony Lloyd describes how videos showed one execution then threatened the next hostage, producing predictable shock and global attention.
Cantley Presenting ISIS Propaganda Series
- In September 2014 Cantley appeared in ISIS videos titled Lend Me Your Ears, wearing an orange jumpsuit and addressing Western policies.
- The seven videos mixed propaganda lines with Cantley's expressed anger at feeling abandoned by the British government.
Why Cantley Became The Last Man Standing
- John Cantley survived while other Western hostages were killed or released, creating a unique mystery around his fate.
- His appearance in ISIS propaganda videos raised questions about coercion, survival strategy, or possible collaboration.