A new HBO documentary, Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery, has thrust Canadian developer Peter Todd into the spotlight, claiming he is none other than the elusive creator of Bitcoin, Satoshi Nakamoto. Since Bitcoin’s inception, the true identity of its creator has been one of the cryptocurrency world’s most enduring mysteries. The documentary, released on Oct. 8, marks the latest attempt to solve it.

Todd, known for his contributions to Bitcoin’s early development, was less than thrilled to find himself at the center of the Satoshi debate. He reportedly told Wired, “This was clearly going to be a circus,” adding that he had agreed to participate under the impression that the documentary would focus on Bitcoin’s history, not a speculative accusation about his identity.

The film’s director, Cullen Hoback—who previously claimed to unmask the person behind QAnon—presents Todd as a possible Satoshi during a dramatic confrontation, which serves as the film’s climax. Hoback asserts that while he can’t definitively prove Todd is Satoshi, the documentary presents a “very strong case.” He cites an old online forum discussion where Todd, he claims, seems to anticipate Satoshi’s thoughts on Bitcoin transaction fees, with Hoback suggesting that another forum user in that thread might be Todd using an alias.

Todd has vehemently denied the claims, stating, “For the record, I am not Satoshi.” He believes Hoback’s assertions are designed more to drive viewer interest than to uncover the truth, telling Wired that the accusations were “for marketing.” Nevertheless, the implications of the documentary have weighed heavily on Todd. Since the film’s release, he has reportedly faced an influx of emails ranging from demands for loans to veiled threats, prompting him to go into hiding due to security concerns.

While the mystery of Satoshi Nakamoto continues to captivate the public, some in the crypto community argue that identifying Bitcoin’s creator is now irrelevant. Bitcoin has thrived under its decentralized model, they say, rendering the identity of its creator a historical curiosity rather than a pressing question. For Todd, however, the unwanted attention brings practical dangers, including risks of robbery or kidnapping tied to perceptions of wealth.

The hunt for Satoshi’s true identity remains as controversial as ever, underscoring the high stakes and intense scrutiny that anyone suspected of the title could face.