The Best True Crime TV Shows
- 1Dayle Hinman, Peter Thomas, Roy Shuler
Delve into the world of cutting-edge forensics and witness how crime scene investigators unravel the most baffling cases. Featuring experts in the field, this eye-opening series showcases the power of science in solving seemingly unsolvable crimes. You'll be on the edge of your seat as you watch investigators piece together clues and ultimately bring justice to the victims.
More Forensic Files
- #11 of 16 on16 TV Shows That Have Made So Many More Episodes Than We Realized
- #174 of 185 onThe Greatest Shows of the 1990s, Ranked
- #49 of 321 onEvery Major Crime TV Show, Ranked By Fans
- 2Danny Pino, Anthony Green
This gripping series delves into the past, re-examining long-forgotten crimes and shedding new light on old mysteries. With dogged determination and perseverance, detectives reopen these cold cases, piecing together new evidence and re-interviewing witnesses in an attempt to close the case once and for all. The show is equal parts thrilling and heartbreaking, as families hope for answers after years of waiting.
More Cold Case Files- #74 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #24 of 139 on130+ Movies And Shows With Cold In The Title
- #2 of 63 onThe 50+ Best Current A&E Shows, Ranked
- 3Lester Holt, Ann Curry, Keith Morrison
A captivating news program dedicated to digging deep into the most shocking true crime stories. With a strong emphasis on investigative journalism and first-person accounts, viewers are taken on a journey through the twists and turns of each baffling case. The show's blend of emotional storytelling and hard-hitting reporting has established it as a staple in the true crime genre.
More Dateline NBC- #3 of 64 onThe 60+ Best News Magazines TV Shows
- #5 of 43 onThe Best Shows Airing on Oxygen Now
- #18 of 21 onCurrent TV Shows You Totally Lie About Watching To Sound Smart
- 4Carl Marino
With an impressive career spanning over two decades, retired detective Joe Kenda shares his most challenging cases in this compelling series. Alongside dramatic re-enactments, Kenda's candid, no-nonsense narration brings viewers inside the mind of one of America's most dedicated homicide investigators. Each episode will leave you riveted, pondering the complexity of human nature at its darkest.
- 5
The First 48
Dion Graham, Caroline Mason, Tony MullinsTiming is everything in this high-stakes reality series that follows detectives during the first 48 hours of a murder investigation. As the clock ticks, viewers are immersed into the race against time to solve the crime before crucial evidence is lost. The tension and urgency create a gripping atmosphere, making this show a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts.
More The First 48- #15 of 84 onThe Best Shows On Thursday Night In 2024
- #195 of 321 onEvery Major Crime TV Show, Ranked By Fans
- #1 of 63 onThe 50+ Best Current A&E Shows, Ranked
- 6Robert Stack, Dennis Farina, Keely Shaye Smith
This iconic show blends chilling tales of unsolved crimes, mysterious disappearances, and paranormal encounters. With its eerie theme music and captivating storytelling, it has captivated audiences for decades. This anthology series will leave you pondering the unknown and eager to help solve these enigmatic cases.
More Unsolved Mysteries- #129 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #110 of 225 onThe Best TV Shows To Rewatch
- #3 of 71 onThe Creepiest Shows In TV History
- 7Maureen Maher, Peter Van Sant, Erin Moriarty
Get an insider's view of some of the most captivating criminal investigations in this long-running news magazine. With first-rate reporting, each episode delves into the gritty details of a gripping case featuring interviews with key players and dramatic re-enactments. You'll be on the edge of your seat as you follow each twist and turn in these captivating stories.
More 48 Hours- #5 of 64 onThe 60+ Best News Magazines TV Shows
- #60 of 93 on95+ Movies And Shows With Hours In The Title
- #200 of 249 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '80s, Ranked
- 8Bill Kurtis
No stone is left unturned in this comprehensive look into America's criminal justice system. This compelling series covers high-profile cases, shocking verdicts, and a fascinating exploration of the legal process from investigation to conviction. It's the perfect binge-watch for those intrigued by the inner workings of the law and court system.
- 9Laura San Giacomo
Ever wonder what pushes someone to commit murder? This chilling series profiles ordinary people who suddenly "snap" and turn to deadly violence. Featuring interviews with the accused, their friends, and families, along with gripping re-enactments, Snapped delves deep into the human psyche and the factors that drive ordinary people to commit extraordinary crimes.
More Snapped- Dig Deeper...Husbands On Snapped Who Should've Seen It Coming
- #2 of 43 onThe Best Shows Airing on Oxygen Now
- #62 of 158 onThe Best Shows On Peacock And The Series We Can't Wait To Watch
- 10Steve Schroko
Sometimes, the most dangerous people are those closest to us – friends, family, and neighbors. This chilling series shares the harrowing personal accounts of those who lived alongside killers, never suspecting the atrocities they were capable of committing. Prepare to be haunted by these tales of deception and betrayal in the most unexpected places.
- 11Elizabeth Vargas, David Muir, Barbara Walters
This long-running investigative journalism program focuses on human interest and true crime stories that both intrigue and inform. Get an up-close look at high-profile cases, unsolved mysteries, and even stories ripped straight from the headlines. You'll be captivated by the show's in-depth reporting and powerful storytelling.
More 20/20 - 12Kelly Siegler, Yolanda McClary, Alan Brown
Former prosecutor Kelly Siegler and seasoned investigator Yolanda McClary join forces to tackle unsolved murder cases in small towns across America. Their expertise and passion for justice breathe new life into cold cases, as they work with local law enforcement to uncover new leads and bring closure to families still searching for answers. You'll be inspired by their tenacity and zeal for justice in the pursuit of the truth.
More Cold Justice- #305 of 409 onThe Best TV Shows Returning In 2022
- #1 of 38 onThe Best Shows Airing on Oxygen Now
- #14 of 25 onNetflix Shows And Movies That Are Based On Real Crimes
- 13James Kallstrom, Anthony D. Call, Bob Featherer
Get unprecedented access to the inner workings of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in this riveting series. Through re-enactments, interviews, and actual case files, viewers are taken on a thrilling journey through the Bureau's most challenging cases. Witness how the nation's top investigators use cutting-edge technology and good old-fashioned detective work to solve complex crimes and protect the public.
- 14James Zeiss
Step back in time and explore the most notorious crimes in history in this evocative series. Each episode delves into a different chilling case, exploring the social context and motives that led to these heinous acts. With meticulous attention to detail and gripping storytelling, you'll be left pondering the darkest corners of human nature and how the past can echo into the present.
- 15
Nightmare Next Door
Greg Diefenbach, James Davenjay, Tom GambrillThe quiet serenity of suburbia is shattered in this unsettling series that uncovers the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of seemingly idyllic neighborhoods. Each episode tells the horrifying tale of a murder that occurs just beyond the white picket fences, revealing the sinister side of small-town life. You'll never look at your neighbors the same way again after watching this spine-chilling show.
- 16
Disappeared
Christopher Crutchfield Walker, Kiff VandenHeuvel, Dennis HindmanThe anguish of a vanished loved one is unimaginable. This haunting series traces the stories of those who have mysteriously vanished, leaving families and friends desperate for answers. As investigators delve into each case, they unspool a tangled web of clues, secrets, and heartbreak, making Disappeared a poignant and captivating watch.
- 17John Walsh
For over 20 years, this game-changing show helped bring criminals to justice by enlisting the public's help. With heart-pounding re-enactments and chilling portrayals of real-life fugitives, America's Most Wanted captivated millions of viewers eager to assist in the capture of the nation's most dangerous criminals. This memorable series not only entertained but brought hope and closure to countless victims and their families.
More America's Most Wanted- #59 of 117 onThe 100+ Best TV Cop Shows
- #6 of 14 on14 Utterly Odd Facts You Never Knew About Brendan Fraser
- #80 of 249 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '80s, Ranked
- 18
I killed my BFF
Alex KruzTrue stories of friendships that led to tragic and unexpected crimes. - 19
Fear Thy Neighbor
Tish Iceton, David Bacque, Craig CyrHome is supposed to be a haven, but for the victims in this chilling series, it's a living nightmare. Uncover the harrowing tales of neighbors at war, whose conflicts escalate into deadly violence. Through gripping interviews and dramatic re-enactments, you'll be left reeling as you witness the dark side of neighborly disputes.
- 20Lynnanne Zager
Don't be fooled by their charms – these women are cold-blooded killers. This gripping series delves into the minds of female murderers, examining their motives and exploring their twisted psyches. From crimes of passion to calculated masterminds, Deadly Women proves that appearances can be deceiving, and some of the deadliest criminals can wear a facade of femininity.
- 21Rodie Sanchez, Aubrey St. Angelo
In the heart of the Louisiana swampland, a gripping and chilling murder case unfolds that's sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With an extraordinary blend of detective work and forensic science, investigators race against the clock to uncover the truth about a cold case that spans years. The show's unique ability to transport audiences into the eerie bayou setting adds an extra layer of tension and intrigue, making it one captivating true crime series you won't want to miss.
- 22
Solved
Kathleen Garrett, Skoti Collins, David HillDelve into the intricate detective work and breakthrough moments that cracked open baffling murder cases. Each episode of this thrilling series presents a different solved case, revealing how investigators pieced together clues, analyzed evidence, and ultimately uncovered the truth. You'll be captivated by the expertly crafted storytelling and ingenious deductive methods used to solve these perplexing crimes.
- 23Pistol Black, Jane Green, Anne-Sophie Martin
Hold onto your hats, folks, because this reboot takes the classic series to new heights with fresh cases and jaw-dropping twists. Exploring a variety of mysteries, from bone-chilling disappearances to paranormal activity, there's no shortage of suspense and unanswered questions that'll leave you grabbing for more. With its slick storytelling and compelling reenactments combined with the modern touch of today's technology, it's no wonder that this updated take on the iconic true crime show has garnered a legion of devoted fans around the globe.
- 24Nathan Wiley, Cherise Silvestri, Raven Cinello
In today's digital age, predators can lurk behind seemingly innocent profiles. This unnerving series reveals the true stories of people who fell victim to online schemes, from catfishing to cyberstalking. With each episode, the façade of online safety is stripped away, exposing the terrifying consequences of trusting strangers in the virtual world.
- 25
Your Worst Nightmare
Eric Abraham, Clark Sarullo, Robin BloodworthWhen the line between dreams and reality blurs, terror ensues. This spine-chilling series explores harrowing tales of everyday people living through their worst fears, as they confront horrific crimes that turned their lives upside down. Through captivating storytelling and dramatic re-enactments, you'll be left questioning the boundary between fear and reality.
- 26Robert Durst, Andrew Jarecki, Gary Napoli
This captivating miniseries delves deep into the enigmatic life of real estate heir Robert Durst, who stands accused of multiple gruesome murders. Through exclusive interviews with Durst himself and a wealth of evidence, viewers are taken on a twisted journey through his troubled past and alleged crimes. It's an enthralling exploration of wealth, power, and deception that will leave you stunned.
- 27Steven Avery, Brendan Dassey, Dean Strang
This groundbreaking Netflix documentary series examines the controversial case of Steven Avery, a man wrongfully imprisoned for 18 years before being charged with another murder soon after his release. With unprecedented access to Avery and his family, Making a Murderer exposes flaws in the criminal justice system, creating a gripping narrative that sparks debate and conversation.
- 28
The New Detectives
Gene GalushaTake a thrilling ride along with dedicated investigators as they work tirelessly to solve gruesome crimes. This captivating series provides an intimate look at the cutting-edge forensic techniques used to crack open even the most puzzling cases. The blend of gripping storytelling and innovative science makes The New Detectives a staple in the true crime genre.
- 29Jan C. Garavaglia, Jeff Colt, Sandy Ludwig
With meticulous precision and unwavering dedication, Dr. Jan Garavaglia delves into the world of forensic pathology to uncover the truth behind mysterious deaths. Each episode follows Dr. G as she examines victims' bodies, piecing together the puzzle of how they met their untimely demise. Equal parts informative and fascinating, this series offers a unique perspective on the investigative process.
More Dr. G: Medical Examiner- #9 of 44 onThe Best Reality Medical Shows
- #26 of 100 onThe 90+ Best Reality Shows About Jobs, Ranked
- #5 of 59 onThe Best Discovery Life TV Shows
- 30Michael Stone, Tim Hopper, Kris Mohandie
What makes a killer truly diabolical? In this chilling series, forensic psychiatrist Dr. Michael Stone examines the various degrees of evil in the criminal mind. Using his signature "scale of evil," Dr. Stone profiles notorious serial killers and gives viewers unique insights into the darkest depths of psychopathy. It's a shocking exploration of human depravity that you won't forget.
