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The true crime genre has grown huge lately, with plenty of true crime podcasts, movies, whodunits, and true crime TV shows popping up on streaming platforms pretty much daily. Quite a few explanations are floating around the web as to why people are becoming true crime obsessed. While some attempt to unravel the mystery, others are more interested in the thrill and something that will give them the heebie-jeebies. But in a controlled way while staying in their secure environment, aka, the bedroom.

And although true crime movies and TV shows usually don't belong to the horror genre, they're disturbing and creepy nonetheless. One could argue that true crime stories are even more scary and unsettling than fictional horror tales. As we grow older, we realize it's not the sharks, anacondas, werewolves, and bears that people must be afraid of. It's those who reside among us. According to data, humans are the second deadliest creatures worldwide, with the first place going to... guess who… freakin’ mosquitoes!

It's very unsettling to realize that those who can pose an impossible-to-comprehend menace and commit monstrous acts just walk among us. Heck, perhaps it's people we know. Usually, it's the most impactful and baffling high-profile cases that make it into documentary films; however, that's not always the case. Quite a few true crime stories get attention only after the story is retold in the movie. Some turn into true crime TV shows because the horrors of some take longer than the average movie's length to recount.

For all you true-horror fanatics, we've compiled a list of the best true crime shows that have shaken the foundations of society. Below, you will find some true crime shows that reveal the most tragic facets of humanity. Sometimes the events that happen in real life can be more bewildering and implausible than the most absurd fiction story.

#1

Des

Des

2020 | ITV | Seasons: 1
 
This three-episode mini-series is about murders; however, it's not a whodunnit because Dennis Nilsen admits to the killings right from the beginning. The acting is what this TV show is highly commended for. David Tennant's portrayal of Nilsen is strongly praised in almost every online review, and it is more than deserved. His stoic and stern body language is much more impressive than the eerie, "creepy" resemblance. This mini-series is for you if you want realism and an almost documentary-style presentation of a recent horror event.

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#2

Mindhunter

Mindhunter

2017 - 2019 | Netflix | Seasons: 2
 
Set in the late 1970s, the Netflix drama Mindhunter is based on the true story of how the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit began studying psychopaths and serial killers. In this series, two FBI agents are entrusted with interrogating serial killers to solve open cases. Mindhunter rapidly sticks in your mind, not just because of the material but also because of the period it takes place in. And it's okay if you weren't born in the 1970s. The filmmakers here did an excellent job of capturing America in that era. The storyline undoubtedly grabs your attention, and each character in the Mindhunter series makes an enduring impression on your mind.

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Stephanie Did It
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Cancelled. One of the best crime series ever made with incredibly accurate portrayals of notorious serial killers. Why this great series was cut off mid-storyline is beyond me

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#3

Ted Bundy: Falling For A Killer

Ted Bundy: Falling For A Killer

2020 | Amazon Prime | Seasons: 1
 
In this mini-series, Elizabeth Kendall, Ted Bundy's longtime partner, her daughter Molly, and other survivors finally speak out about the notorious serial killer. This documentary focuses on Bundy's monstrosities by telling the stories of the people who were duped into loving him, the survivors, and the relatives and friends of the young women who perished at his hands. It's a riveting, tragic, and genuinely excellent piece of filmmaking.

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#4

The Pharmacist

The Pharmacist

2020 | Netflix | Seasons: 1
 
It's 1999. Small-town pharmacist Dan Schneider sets out on a relentless search to identify and bring his son's killer to justice after losing him in a drug-related shooting and receiving no answers from authorities. However, a few months later, the repercussions of his son's addiction and untimely death come back to haunt him. Many young, seemingly healthy people start coming to Dan's pharmacy with high-dose painkiller prescriptions. Dan sets out on a mission to save the lives of other sons and daughters in his town after recognizing a danger long before the opioid epidemic received widespread exposure. Even if you aren't that interested in the subject matter, this honest, dramatic, and emotional story of Dan Schneider is definitely worth seeing.

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#5

American Crime Story

American Crime Story

2016 - | FX | Seasons: 3
 
Perhaps some millennials and every generation before them can recall the high-profile O.J. Simpson double murder case and its cultural impact in the mid-90s. The entire nation was glued to the screens and enthralled by the so-called Trial of the Century while it was being shown live on television. The case of a former National Football League player and actor was complicated by numerous issues such as race, police cover-ups, and evidence manipulation. And this series does a beautiful job of capturing it all.

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#6

The Jinx

The Jinx

2015 | HBO | Seasons: 1
 
The plot of this documentary TV mini-series revolves around Robert Durst, the son of the late Seymour Durst, one of the wealthiest real estate investors and developers in New York. Robert had long been suspected of murdering his wife, a female friend, and a neighbor. However, he always managed to maneuver his way out of the allegations. Each new episode delves deeper into this troubled man's thoughts and the uncertainty surrounding his actions. Without giving away the impending revelations, producer Andrew Jarecki supplies the audience with the material at the right tempo. He also provides an example of good investigative work. You should absolutely watch it if you enjoy crime dramas. Other than that, this series is solid journalistic work. It had its entertaining value and served justice for the victims.

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StayC
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This series was truly amazing, I don't want to ruin the ending but there is an amazing resolution to this!

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#7

Killer Inside: The Mind Of Aaron Hernandez

Killer Inside: The Mind Of Aaron Hernandez

2020 | Netflix | Seasons: 1
 
Killer Inside: The Mind Of Aaron Hernandez is a three-part documentary series exploring the circumstances behind former NFL player Aaron Hernandez's downfall and shocking death by suicide. Unlike many other documentaries, this one merely seemed to report the facts without pushing any particular agenda (which is always good). Through research, Hernandez's conversations in jail, and interviews with those who knew him, the filmmakers explored a variety of causes for what might have happened instead of focusing on just one. There is no need to be a fan of American football or American to enjoy this true-crime series. Give it a go. It's an excellent attempt to glimpse into the human psyche and why people commit murder. Captivating, to say the least.

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#8

Interrogation

Interrogation

2020 | Paramount | Seasons: 1
 
Interrogation is a non-linear criminal series where the main plot revolves around questioning potential suspects in a murder case that has been unsolved for many years. The main protagonist, his friend, and the investigator who threw him in prison all keep viewers guessing who the actual offender is from the outset. Although the timeline bounces between decades, it is well-executed and fits the plot. The characters are also really well-developed. For true crime fanatics, the show is an excellent piece of entertainment and a great way to pass the time.

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#9

The Trials Of Gabriel Fernandez

The Trials Of Gabriel Fernandez

2020 | Netflix | Seasons: 1
 
This six-part documentary explores the abuse and subsequent murder of Gabriel Fernandez, an eight-year-old from Palmdale, California, in 2013. You're bound to feel depressed after watching this riveting documentary. It will make you angry. It will also result in intense frustration over the young boy's senseless death. This show investigates what should and could be done when a child is in danger, but it also reveals how some kids manage to slip through the net. The trial, decision, and punishment are all displayed, making it an excellent investigative piece in filmmaking.

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LMW
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is the most gut-wrenching documentary that I have ever watched...so many emotions...from sadness, to bewilderment, to pure rage

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#10

How To Fix A Drug Scandal

How To Fix A Drug Scandal

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Don't you wish you knew
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wasn't sure about this one at first, but it's highly entertaining and intriguing IMO.

#11

Who Killed Malcolm X?

Who Killed Malcolm X?

2019 - 2020 | Netflix | Seasons: 1
 
In this docuseries, activist Abdur-Rahman Muhammad starts his own inquiry into the puzzling circumstances surrounding the murder of civil rights pioneer Malcolm X. For those who are versed in the subject and want to learn more about this significant period in history, this is a well-made documentary and an indisputable must-watch. It's educational and well-paced. The information one ought to know is presented in a simple, linear manner, which makes the story easier to follow. This one is an absolute gem thanks to the archival footage, interviews with people from that time, and excellent investigative work.

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#12

Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, And Madness

Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, And Madness

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#14

Unsolved Mysteries

Unsolved Mysteries

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#15

The Innocence Files

The Innocence Files

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#16

Trial By Media

Trial By Media

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#17

Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich

Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich

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StayC
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you liked this, there's a great podcast called power: the Maxwell's.

#18

Dirty John: The Betty Broderick Story

Dirty John: The Betty Broderick Story

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Don't you wish you knew
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a story! I read the book (don't remember the title, sorry). And was so excited for the show. Was not disappointed.

#19

I'll Be Gone In The Dark

I'll Be Gone In The Dark

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#20

Fear City: New York vs. The Mafia

Fear City: New York vs. The Mafia

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#24

Alias Grace

Alias Grace

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Hill Branda
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a brilliant series based on the true story of Grace Marks, a poor Irish immigrant condemned to a life of servitude. She is sentenced to life in prison but becomes an infamous figure and sparks debates about mental illness. Her life story is fascinating. Was her crime a reaction to horrible abuse or was she playing the doctor all along to secure her freedom?

#25

Evil Genius: The True Story Of America's Most Diabolical Bank Heist

Evil Genius: The True Story Of America's Most Diabolical Bank Heist

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LMW
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a must watch. Not for the faint of heart because some parts are very graphic

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#27

When They See Us

When They See Us

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Manon Roquette
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Absolutely incredible. The young actors are amazing. Must see !!!

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#28

The First 48

The First 48

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#29

Forensic Files

Forensic Files

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#30

The Confession Tapes

The Confession Tapes

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#31

Seduced: Inside The NXIVM Cult

Seduced: Inside The NXIVM Cult

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#32

Heaven's Gate: The Cult Of Cults

Heaven's Gate: The Cult Of Cults

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#33

The Staircase (2022)

The Staircase (2022)

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LMW
Community Member
2 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

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#36

Time: The Kalief Browder Story

Time: The Kalief Browder Story

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#37

I Love You, Now Die

I Love You, Now Die

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LMW
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If anyone doesn't know this story, read about it or watch the documentary. Just be prepared to be angry at many parts and sad at most...grab the tissues

#38

Murder Among The Mormons

Murder Among The Mormons

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#40

Murder On Middle Beach

Murder On Middle Beach

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#42

Wild Wild Country

Wild Wild Country

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#46

Under The Banner Of Heaven

Under The Banner Of Heaven

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#48

I Am The Night

I Am The Night

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#49

The Lady And The Dale

The Lady And The Dale

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#50

No One Saw A Thing

No One Saw A Thing

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#52

The Case Against Adnan Syed

The Case Against Adnan Syed

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#55

I Am A Killer: Released

I Am A Killer: Released

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#58

Taken At Birth

Taken At Birth

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#61

Manhunt: Deadly Games

Manhunt: Deadly Games

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#62

Escape At Dannemora

Escape At Dannemora

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#63

Rest In Power: The Trayvon Martin Story

Rest In Power: The Trayvon Martin Story

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#67

The Night Caller

The Night Caller

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#68

The Preppy Murder: Death In Central Park

The Preppy Murder: Death In Central Park

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#69

The Devil Next Door

The Devil Next Door

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#70

Who The (Bleep) Did I Marry?

Who The (Bleep) Did I Marry?

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