Uncanny Valley | WIRED ‘Stop Trying to Unmask Satoshi Nakamoto’ Says Actor Ben McKenzie
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Apr 28, 2026 
Ben McKenzie, actor-turned-crypto critic and documentarian, explains why the hunt for bitcoin’s creator only fuels mythology. He calls crypto a speculative, often harmful industry and outlines its primary uses: gambling and illicit activity. He also recounts pushing for Congressional scrutiny and the making of his film tracking crypto’s promises and pitfalls.
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Crypto Succeeds Because Of Its Compelling Story
- Crypto functions primarily as a story that convinces people it's a solution to systemic financial problems.
- Ben McKenzie explains the narrative: everyone hates the current system, so Bitcoin promises a simple fix despite failing practically as money.
Satoshi Mythology Fuels Crypto's Cult Appeal
- The myth of Satoshi fuels crypto's mystique and benefits the unknown creator if still alive.
- McKenzie says revealing a real person would likely deflate the cult-like narrative that elevates the code into mythology.
Speculation And Crime Dominate Crypto Use
- Crypto is predominantly used for speculation and crime, not practical payments.
- McKenzie cites a crypto firm estimate of $150 billion in illicit activity annually and examples like Epstein and sanctioned oligarch dealings.