A reality show featuring the lives of male escorts in Las Vegas, titled "Gigolos," has recently resurfaced in the news following the conviction of one of its stars, Akshaya "Ash" Kubiak, for the murder of a woman. Kubiak, who appeared on the show from 2011 to 2016 under the name Ash Armand, was found guilty of bludgeoning 29-year-old Herleen Dulai to death during a drug-induced episode in July 2020.
Court documents indicate that Kubiak and Dulai consumed psychedelic mushrooms before the incident. Kubiak called 911, claiming Dulai was experiencing cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered Dulai's body, which exhibited signs of blunt force trauma and strangulation. Kubiak initially stated that Dulai had attacked him but later admitted to committing the act.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department's investigation uncovered evidence suggesting an attempted cleanup of the crime scene, including blood found in a washing machine. In September 2021, Kubiak pleaded guilty to charges of voluntary manslaughter and mayhem, resulting in a prison sentence of eight to 20 years.
The case is being detailed in a new three-part documentary series on Paramount+, titled "Sin City Gigolo: A Murder In Las Vegas," which explores Kubiak's life through interviews with family, friends, and cast members, although Kubiak himself was not interviewed for the series. "Gigolos" had previously sparked debate over the legality of prostitution practices in Nevada, where it is permitted in licensed establishments. Kubiak, a self-described "sex and fitness educator," began serving his sentence in 2021. Dulai, a graduate of Temple University, was noted for her positive impact on those around her.