The Best True Crime Documentaries to Stream Now

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Add these true crime documentaries to your must-watch list

<p>Courtesy of HBO</p> Robert Durst in

Courtesy of HBO

Robert Durst in 'The Jinx: Part Two'

Some documentaries aren't exactly for the faint of heart.

Though many true crime documentaries and docuseries tell a cautionary tale, they can also leave your heart racing and send a chill down your spine. But with so many streaming services to choose from, and several options on each platform, it can be hard to narrow down what to watch.

Among financial crimes, mysterious murders, cults and notorious serial killers, here are some of the best true crime documentaries to stream now.

The Jinx

<p>HBO</p> Robert Durst in 'The Jinx: Part Two'.

HBO

Robert Durst in 'The Jinx: Part Two'.

In HBO's Emmy-winning 2015 docuseries, director Andrew Jarecki sat down with wealthy New York City real estate heir Robert Durst, interviewing him about the three murders he was accused of (to which he shockingly confessed on camera). Now, nearly a decade later, HBO revisits the aftermath and shares what happened next — chronicling Durst's life sentence and his death at age 78 in January 2022 — in Part Two. The series premiered on April 21, with the remaining five episodes every Sunday through May 12.

Watch The Jinx on Max

They Called Him Mostly Harmless

<p>Courtesy of Max</p> Hiker Brandon Dowell in 'They Called Him Mostly Harmless'

Courtesy of Max

Hiker Brandon Dowell in 'They Called Him Mostly Harmless'

When an unidentified hiker is found dead in a tent along the Appalachian Trail in Florida, fellow trekkers recall encounters with him but only know him by his nickname, "Mostly Harmless." This Max documentary profiles the internet sleuths who dedicated themselves to uncovering the man's true identity — leading to unexpected twists and turns.

Watch They Called Him Mostly Harmless on Max

Ctrl+Alt+Desire

<p>CBS/Paramount+</p> Micah Spayer as Grant Amato in 'Ctrl+Alt+Desire'

CBS/Paramount+

Micah Spayer as Grant Amato in 'Ctrl+Alt+Desire'

Ensnared in an obsession with Bulgarian live cam model Silviya "Silvie" Ventsislavova — even stealing money from his family to spend it on her services — Grant Amato's infatuation escalates to murdering his parents and brother when he's forbidden from further contact. Learn more about the chilling saga of Grant's crimes and consequential trial in this telling docuseries, ultimately resulting in a life sentence behind bars.

Watch Ctrl+Alt+Desire on Paramount+

Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV

<p>Investigation Discovery</p> Alexa Nikolas in 'Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV'

Investigation Discovery

Alexa Nikolas in 'Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV'

Ever since Jennette McCurdy's 2022 memoir, I'm Glad My Mom Died, exposed the toxic culture of the Nickelodeon empire and child stardom, other whistleblowers have stepped forward with additional revelations about the behind-the-scenes workings of the children's TV network. In this four-part docuseries (with a bonus episode premiering April 7), former child stars — including Drake & Josh's Drake Bell, Zoey 101's Alexa Nicolas — and crew members reflect on their experiences working with producer Dan Schneider, inappropriate actions both on- and off-screen and the untold stories of child actors being abused.

Watch Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV on Max

What Jennifer Did

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> 'What Jennifer Did'

Courtesy of Netflix

'What Jennifer Did'

On the night of Nov. 8, 2010, a Vietnamese immigrant family in Ontario, Canada fell prey to a random home invasion — resulting in the death of mother Bich Ha and father Huei Hann Pan being shot and later falling into a coma, all while their daughter, Jennifer, was left bound as the sole witness. Netflix's documentary revisits this harrowing event, using police interrogation footage and testimonies to expose the truth behind Jennifer's deceptive eyewitness account.

Watch What Jennifer Did on Netflix

The Synanon Fix

<p>Bruce Levine/HBO</p> Charles Chuck Dederich, founder of Synanon from the docuseries 'The Synanon Fix,' 2024

Bruce Levine/HBO

Charles Chuck Dederich, founder of Synanon from the docuseries 'The Synanon Fix,' 2024

During the late 1950s, Alcoholics Anonymous member Charles "Chuck" Dederich established a rehabilitation program now known as the "Church of Synanon" to aid people with drug addictions. Featuring exclusive archival footage and interviews with former members — including Dederich's daughter — HBO's four-part docuseries, The Synanon Fix, delves into the program's transformation into a cult-like movement, with practices such as forced vasectomies, abortions, divorces and more.

Watch The Synanon Fix on Max

The Outreau Case: A French Nightmare

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> 'The Outreau Case: A French Nightmare'

Courtesy of Netflix

'The Outreau Case: A French Nightmare'

Back in the early 2000s, the French town of Outreau became the epicenter of one of the nation's most contentious legal battles, where accusations of pedophilia within a single family soon implicated numerous townsfolk — sparking a judicial quagmire traced with investigative mishaps and scant evidence. This limited series delves into the intricacies of the case, unraveling its workings in an effort to explain its divisive conclusion.

Watch The Outreau Case: A French Nightmare on Netflix

The Program: Cons, Cults and Kidnapping

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> Katherine Kubler in 'The Program: Cons, Cults and Kidnapping'

Courtesy of Netflix

Katherine Kubler in 'The Program: Cons, Cults and Kidnapping'

Like Netflix's Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare, The Program explores the disturbing and still-spreading troubled teen industry, which pledges to "rehabilitate" rebellious youth through ruthless tactics: a topic recently brought into public consciousness by figures like Paris Hilton. Director Katherine Kubler — who endured trauma at the hands of a correctional institution, the Academy at Ivy Ridge — confronts her own past while unearthing a wider system of abuse through this docuseries.

Watch The Program: Cons, Cults and Kidnapping on Netflix

American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> Danny Casolaro in 'American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders'

Courtesy of Netflix

Danny Casolaro in 'American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders'

On Aug. 10, 1991, journalist Danny Casolaro was found dead with his wrists slashed in a hotel bathtub. Although authorities classified his death as a suicide, those close to him speculated he was murdered for his investigation into a conspiracy he called "the Octopus" — a clandestine organization linked to government spyware, money laundering, Ronald Reagan’s Iran-Contra affair and even murder. Decades later, photojournalist Christian Hansen attempts to pick up where Casolaro left off.

Watch American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders on Netflix

American Nightmare

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> Denise Huskins in 'American Nightmare,' 2023

Courtesy of Netflix

Denise Huskins in 'American Nightmare,' 2023

When Aaron Quinn reported the implausible abduction of girlfriend Denise Huskins to the police in 2015, he found himself initially cast as the prime suspect, only to witness a jolting reversal as they — along with the media — shifted the responsibility onto her, accusing her of orchestrating a Gone Girl-style smokescreen. A three-part docuseries, American Nightmare dives headfirst into several thought-provoking issues, such as victim blaming and the glaring inadequacies in our criminal justice system.

Watch American Nightmare on Netflix

Lover, Stalker, Killer

<p>Netflix</p> 'Lover, Stalker, Killer,' 2024

Netflix

'Lover, Stalker, Killer,' 2024

Looking to begin afresh in Omaha, Neb., newly single mechanic Dave Kroupa connects with two promising women, meeting Liz Golyar on an online dating site and Cari Farver at his auto shop. Little did Kroupa anticipate that his budding love triangle would turn deadly, putting him and everyone he cares about in danger.

Watch Lover, Stalker, Killer on Netflix

Chowchilla

<p>UPI/Bettmann/Getty</p> The Dairyland Union School bus from the kidnapping detailed in 'Chowchilla,' 2023

UPI/Bettmann/Getty

The Dairyland Union School bus from the kidnapping detailed in 'Chowchilla,' 2023

Featuring exclusive interviews with the survivors, the 2023 documentary from CNN Films and Max explores the most bizzare mass kidnapping of all-time. In in Chowchilla, Calif., three masked men hijacked a bus carrying 26 school children — demanding a $5 million ransom — before loading them into soundproofed vans that drove them to the underground chamber where they were buried alive.

Watch Chowchilla on Max

#CyberSleuths: The Idaho Murders

<p>CBS/Paramount+</p> Olivia Vitale and Andra Griffin in '#CyberSleuths: The Idaho Murders'

CBS/Paramount+

Olivia Vitale and Andra Griffin in '#CyberSleuths: The Idaho Murders'

Found stabbed to death in their off-campus residence on Nov. 13, 2022, four murdered students from the University of Idaho sparked the interest of an amateur TikTok sleuth team — spearheaded by @chroniclesofolivia — determined to bring the truth to light. As they combed through digital evidence, visited the crime scene, shared their theories online and surveyed police statements, this crew of true crime content creators is at the heart of this three-part Paramount+ docuseries, which ponders whether their efforts did more damage than good.

Watch #CyberSleuths: The Idaho Murders on Paramount+

Daughters of the Cult

<p>Hulu</p> 'Daughters of the Cult'

Hulu

'Daughters of the Cult'

In this five-part docuseries, firsthand accounts from survivors and other eyewitnesses reveal the story of the polygamous religious cult led by prophet Ervil LeBaron — nicknamed the "Mormon Manson" — who was known for mandating mass executions of his rivals. While it explores the brutality of these events, Daughters of the Cult also sheds light on themes of sisterhood and healing as those who managed to escape forge new beginnings.

Watch Daughters of the Cult on Hulu

The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard

<p>Courtesy Lifetime Network</p> 'The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard'

Courtesy Lifetime Network

'The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard'

Having served eight years of her 10-year prison sentence for her role in the killing of her mother, Clauddine “Dee Dee,” Gypsy Rose Blanchard — a survivor of Munchausen by proxy — was granted early release on Dec. 28, 2023, catapulting her story back into the limelight. In a six-part Lifetime docuseries, Blanchard candidly shares her story in a tell-all interview conducted before her release. "As a survivor of relentless child abuse, this docuseries chronicles my quest for liberation and journey through self-discovery,” she states in a trailer. “I am unapologetically myself and unafraid to expose the hidden parts of my life that have never been revealed until now.”

Watch The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard on MyLifetime

The Curious Case of Natalia Grace

<p>Investigation Discovery/YouTube</p> Natalia Grace in 'The Curious Case of Natalia Grace'

Investigation Discovery/YouTube

Natalia Grace in 'The Curious Case of Natalia Grace'

It's the story that left the world in disbelief. This ID documentary series follows Michael and Kristine Barnett, the white-picket-fence couple who adopt a young Ukrainian girl with dwarfism, Natalia, and accuse her of being an adult masquerading as a 6-year-old. However, the saga unearths new layers in the second season — which premiered Jan. 1 — as Natalia shares her harrowing experiences with her adoptive parents and has a face-to-face confrontation with Michael.

Watch The Curious Case of Natalia Grace on Max

Bitconned

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> 'Bitconned'

Courtesy of Netflix

'Bitconned'

Netflix's Bitconned tosses us back into the cryptocurrency circus of the late-2010s, unmasking the saga of Centra Tech: a Photoshop-wielding crypto company masterminded by co-founder Ray Trapani and his cohorts, who scammed millions from eager investors — all in the pursuit of funding their extravagant escapades. Using original interviews with Trapani, his family and his co-conspirators, this documentary untangles the web of lies spun by Trapani as he climbed the ladder to success.

Watch Bitconned on Netflix

Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> 'Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare'

Courtesy of Netflix

'Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare'

In the rebellious era of the late-1980s, unruly teens nationwide were involuntarily sent to the Challenger Foundation: a two-month wilderness reformatory therapy camp, designed to instill discipline through a blend of aggressive tactics and inhumane conditions. As these misguided youths trekked hundreds of miles through the Utah desert, the shocking methods employed by the organization — founded by Steve Cartisano — are laid bare in this gripping 90-minute documentary featuring survivor testimonies.

Watch Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare on Netflix

Great Photo, Lovely Life: Facing a Family's Secrets

<p>Amanda Mustard/HBO</p> Amanda Mustard in 'Great Photo, Lovely Life: Facing A Family's Secret'

Amanda Mustard/HBO

Amanda Mustard in 'Great Photo, Lovely Life: Facing A Family's Secret'

Filmed over the course of eight years, this HBO Original documentary centers on Amanda Mustard, a photojournalist who returns to her Pennsylvanian hometown to investigate the decades of sexual abuse crimes committed by her grandfather. Featuring interviews with her family, survivors and the perpetrator himself, Great Photo, Lovely Life illustrates Mustard's attempt to confront the past and break the longstanding silence and shame surrounding her grandfather's actions.

Watch Great Photo, Lovely Life: Facing a Family's Secrets on Max

Born in Synanon

<p>Paramount+</p> 'Born in Synanon'

Paramount+

'Born in Synanon'

Directed by Geeta Gandbhir, this Paramount+ Original docuseries probes into the truth about Synanon, a once-thriving rehabilitation program that spiraled into a full-fledged cult. Spanning four revealing episodes with exclusive archival footage, as Cassidy — who was born into Synanon — and her mother, Sandra Rogers-Hare, reconnect with former members and exchange personal testimonies.

Watch Born in Synanon on Paramount+

Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom

<p>Netflix</p> 'Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom'

Netflix

'Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom'

In 1990, Jens Soering was convicted for the double murder of Derek and Nancy Haysom, the parents of his then-girlfriend, Elizabeth — who faced two counts of accessory. However, this 2023 docuseries takes a deep dive into the lingering mysteries surrounding the case, posing the crucial question: Was the Haysoms' killer really Soering ... or could it have been their daughter?

Watch Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom on Netflix

Escaping Twin Flames

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> Louise and Paula in 'Escaping Twin Flames'

Courtesy of Netflix

Louise and Paula in 'Escaping Twin Flames'

Directed by Cecilia Peck (Seduced: Inside the NXIVM Cult), this three-part docuseries takes a closer look into the inner workings of the Twin Flames Universe, a controversial online community using coercion and exploitation to manipulate those seeking love. Escaping Twin Flames features exclusive interviews with former members sharing their experiences with the cult run by Shaleia and Jeff Ayan.

Watch Escaping Twin Flames on Netflix

Painkiller: The Tylenol Murders

<p>WBBM/Courtesy of Paramount+</p> 'Painkiller: The Tylenol Murders'

WBBM/Courtesy of Paramount+

'Painkiller: The Tylenol Murders'

Decades after the 1982 Tylenol poisonings that killed seven people in Chicago, including a child, detectives are still grappling with the challenge of identifying the perpetrator. This five-episode docuseries zeroes in on a potential suspect, James Lewis, and scrutinizes the investigative missteps made by the police in this unsolved case.

Watch Painkiller: The Tylenol Murders on Paramount+

The Matthew Shepard Story: An American Hate Crime

<p>ID</p> 'The Matthew Shepard Story: An American Hate Crime'

ID

'The Matthew Shepard Story: An American Hate Crime'

Marking the 25th anniversary of Matthew Shepard's tragic death, ID Discovery's two-hour documentary pays tribute to the life and enduring impact of the gay college student who was brutally attacked and left for dead — a heinous act that ignited a nationwide conversation about the discrimination and violence confronting many LGBTQ Americans. The Matthew Shepard Story: An American Hate Crime features interviews from journalists, Shepard's loved ones and influential figures who were affected by the story, such as Rosie O'Donnell, Andrew Rannells and Adam Lambert.

Watch The Matthew Shepard Story: An American Hate Crime on Max

Who Killed Jill Dando?

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> 'Who Killed Jill Dando?'

Courtesy of Netflix

'Who Killed Jill Dando?'

Learn about one of the U.K.'s most perplexing mysteries as this three-part docuseries revisits the shocking events of April 26, 1999, when esteemed TV journalist Jill Dando was fatally shot on her own doorstep in broad daylight. With exclusive interviews featuring Jill's brother, Nigel, and Barry George, the man wrongly accused of her murder, the series explores the enigma surrounding her death and the ongoing quest to unmask the true identity of her killer.

Watch Who Killed Jill Dando? on Netflix

The Devil on Trial

<p>Netflix </p> 'The Devil on Trial'

Netflix

'The Devil on Trial'

In the infamous "Devil Made Me Do It" case, 19-year-old Arne Cheyenne Johnson's claim of demonic influence in the 1981 murder of his landlord, Alan Bono, not only drew public attention but also attracted paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren — the inspiration behind the third Conjuring film. The Devil on Trial unravels the trial and aftermath through reenactments, home videos and firsthand accounts from key figures, including Johnson himself.

Watch The Devil on Trial on Netflix

Scout’s Honor: The Secret Files of the Boy Scouts of America

<p>Netflix</p> Michael Johnson in 'Scouts Honor: The Secret Files of the Boy Scouts of America,' 2023

Netflix

Michael Johnson in 'Scouts Honor: The Secret Files of the Boy Scouts of America,' 2023

Directed by renowned filmmaker Brian Knappenberger (We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists, The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez), this documentary delves beneath the happy-camper veneer of the Boy Scouts of America. Scouts Honor exposes the organization's history of sexual abuse, as revealed through interviews with former staff members, whistleblowers and survivors.

Watch Scout’s Honor: The Secret Files of the Boy Scouts of America on Netflix

Never Let Him Go

<p>Hulu</p> 'Never Let Him Go'

Hulu

'Never Let Him Go'

From ABC News Studios, this four-part docuseries follows Steve Johnson's search for answers about the death of his brother Scott — a gay man found naked at the bottom of an Australian cliff in 1988, revealing a pattern of violent LGBTQ hate crimes in the region. With new evidence, home videos and exclusive interviews, Never Let Him Go captures the killer's confession and sentencing after his wife's tip-off to the police, three decades after the crime.

Watch Never Let Him Go on Hulu

How to Be a Cult Leader

<p>Courtesy of Netflix</p> Shoko Asahara (with microphone) in 'How to Become a Cult Leader'

Courtesy of Netflix

Shoko Asahara (with microphone) in 'How to Become a Cult Leader'

Ever wondered how people end up leading cults or how to stay steps ahead of getting roped into joining one? Narrated by Game of Thrones' Peter Dinklage, this six-part docuseries offers an ironic manual to becoming a cunning puppeteer while exploring the tactics of six infamous cult leaders like Charles Manson and Marshall Applewhite.

Watch How to Be a Cult Leader on Netflix

Betrayal: The Perfect Husband

<p>Hulu </p> 'Betrayal: The Perfect Husband'

Hulu

'Betrayal: The Perfect Husband'

Based on the popular podcast of the same name, this ABC News docuseries reveals the unsettling story of Jennifer Faison and her husband, Spence Herron. Faison bravely tells her story of treachery and trauma as she exposes Herron's hidden sex addiction, extramarital affairs and predatory relationships with students, ultimately leading to his prison sentence for sexual assault.

Watch Betrayal: The Perfect Husband on Hulu

People Magazine Investigates

<p>ID</p> 'People Magazine Investigates'

ID

'People Magazine Investigates'

Check out the gripping world of true crime with PEOPLE's own docuseries as it delves into headline-worthy stories through exclusive interviews and new evidence, uncovering shocking revelations. The show's seventh season kicked off with a compelling episode recounting the 1977 murders of three Oklahoma Girl Scouts.

Watch People Magazine Investigates on Max

Myth of the Zodiac Killer

<p>PEACOCK</p> 'Myth of the Zodiac Killer'

PEACOCK

'Myth of the Zodiac Killer'

What if the Zodiac Killer was never caught ... because they never existed in the first place? Peacock's two-part docuseries challenges the notion of the infamous serial killer's mythical existence, looking at the inconsistencies in witness accounts and evidence through interviews and Artificial Intelligence.

Watch Myth of the Zodiac Killer on Peacock

Last Call: When A Serial Killer Stalked Queer New York

<p>Courtesy of HBO</p> 'Last Call: When a Serial Killer Stalked Queer New York'

Courtesy of HBO

'Last Call: When a Serial Killer Stalked Queer New York'

Based on Elon Green's nonfiction book, HBO's gripping docuseries highlights the terror inflicted upon LGBTQ nightlife by a serial killer during the 1990s. This four-part saga delves into the systemic oppression prevalent during the time of the AIDS crisis and the efforts made by queer activists to seek justice for the victims.

Watch Last Call: When A Serial Killer Stalked Queer New York on Max

Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets

<p>Courtesy of Amazon Prime Video</p> 'Shiny Happy People'

Courtesy of Amazon Prime Video

'Shiny Happy People'

This four-part docuseries takes an in-depth exploration of the Duggars — one of reality TV's most prominent families who were at the forefront of TLC's 19 Kids and Counting — and the cultish practices of their religious organization, Institute in Basic Life Principles. Exposing the household's disturbing secrets that never made it on screen, Shiny Happy People touches on serious subjects such as sexual abuse, child pornography and religious trauma.

Watch Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets on Amazon Prime Video

How to Create a Sex Scandal

<p>HBO MAX</p> 'How to Create a Sex Scandal'

HBO MAX

'How to Create a Sex Scandal'

Based on a set of Texas Monthly articles written by Michael Hall, this limited docuseries focuses on the town of Mineola, Texas, where children shared horror stories about a sex trafficking ring that took effect at a local swinger's club. With multiple suspects sent to prison, it is later revealed that the children were brainwashed into making the whole thing up, which is further investigated by How to Create a Sex Scandal producer Elli Hakami (House of Hammer) and director Julian Hobbs.

Watch How to Create a Sex Scandal on Max

Victim/Suspect

Netflix Rae de Leon and Emma Mannion in 'Victim/Suspect,' 2023
Netflix Rae de Leon and Emma Mannion in 'Victim/Suspect,' 2023

Debuting at the Sundance Film Festival, Nancy Schwartzman's 2023 documentary observes investigative journalist Rae de Leon conducting her years-long research, where she examines the criminal justice pattern of women coming forward regarding their sexual assaults and getting penalized for "false reporting." Produced by de Leon, Amanda Pike, Julie Goldman, Alice Henty and Christopher Clements, Victim/Suspect raises awareness of this flawed system through de Leon's findings and by highlighting women's firsthand testimonies.

Watch Victim/Suspect on Netflix

Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed

Peacock 'Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed'
Peacock 'Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed'

This Peacock Original docuseries bridges the notorious murder case of brothers Lyle and Erik Menendez and the popular '80s boy band Menudo. Being charged with the first-degree murder of their parents in 1996, the Menendez brothers accused their Hollywood executive father of physical and sexual abuse — and decades later, one former Menudo member, Roy Rosselló, recounts his traumatic encounter with José Menendez, which may verify the brothers' past allegations.

Watch Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed on Peacock

Amityville: An Origin Story

MGM+ 'Amityville: An Origin Story'
MGM+ 'Amityville: An Origin Story'

MGM+ is stepping inside the house where a family of six was murdered, which became a paranormal conspiracy and served as the inspiration behind Jay Anson's popular Amityville Horror book and film franchise. This limited docuseries offers chilling never-before-seen footage, eyewitness testimonies and original photography to help make sense of this multilayered and haunting case.

Watch Amityville: An Origin Story on MGM+

American Manhunt: The Boston Marathon Bombing

Netflix 'American Manhunt: The Boston Marathon Bombing'
Netflix 'American Manhunt: The Boston Marathon Bombing'

Timed accordingly to the 10-year anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing, this 2023 docuseries looks closer into the domestic terrorist attack. Using archival footage, personal accounts and reenactments, American Manhunt discusses the two brothers responsible for the explosions near the finish line that killed three people and injured hundreds of others.

Watch American Manhunt: The Boston Marathon Bombing on Netflix

Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal

Netflix Morgan Doughty in 'Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal'
Netflix Morgan Doughty in 'Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal'

After Margaret "Maggie" Murdaugh, 52, and her son, Paul Murdaugh, 22, were found murdered at their hunting lodge in June 2021, their family's veiled history of corruption began to surface. This 2023 docuseries centers on the Murdaughs, South Carolina's illustrious legal dynasty, whose members were tied to multiple homicides, financial fraud and other alleged crimes. Eerily timely, shortly after this series came out, Alex Murdaugh was found guilty of Maggie and Paul's murders and sentenced to two life sentences in prison.

Watch Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal on Netflix

Waco: American Apocalypse

Courtesy of Netflix David Koresh in 'Waco: American Apocalypse'
Courtesy of Netflix David Koresh in 'Waco: American Apocalypse'

Self-declared prophet David Koresh indoctrinated a group of people living in Waco, Texas — notoriously known as the Branch Davidians — to believe the rapture was nearing and how they needed to ambush the U.S. government. Directed by Night Stalker's Tiller Russell, this three-part limited series narrates the events that lead up to one of the most infamous and fatal police sieges in American history.

Watch Waco: American Apocalypse on Netflix

Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence

Courtesy of Hulu Larry Ray in 'Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence'
Courtesy of Hulu Larry Ray in 'Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence'

Stolen Youth chronicles the disturbing case of Larry Ray, a man who lured his daughter's college roommates into a sex cult. Over three hour-long parts, Hulu gets a closer look with personal accounts and unseen footage from Ray and the survivors.

Watch Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence on Hulu

Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street

Netflix 'Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street'
Netflix 'Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street'

Bernie Madoff defrauded global investors for decades, but eventually got caught. Netflix's 2023 docuseries investigates the story of the man behind one of the most notorious Ponzi schemes on Wall Street that defrauded investors of billions of dollars over two decades.

Watch Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street on Netflix

I Am Vanessa Guillen

Netflix 'I Am Vanessa Guillen'
Netflix 'I Am Vanessa Guillen'

I Am Vanessa Guillen shows what happened after the 2020 murder of U.S. Army soldier Vanessa Guillén. Her death garnered international attention after reports said she had been sexually harassed multiple times by a supervisor. This 2022 documentary features interviews with Guillén's family and their fight for answers and action, including the passage of the congressional "I Am Vanessa Guillén Act", which revamped the way sexual harassment and assault cases are investigated in the military.

Watch I Am Vanessa Guillen on Netflix

Capturing the Killer Nurse

Netflix Amy Loughren in 'Capturing the Killer,' 2022
Netflix Amy Loughren in 'Capturing the Killer,' 2022

Intensive care unit nurse Charles Cullen confessed to killing at least 40 patients across various hospitals in 2003, but he almost got away with it. This 2022 documentary film gives an inside look into how investigators proved their case. After you've watched Capturing the Killer Nurse, watch its equally chilling dramatization, The Good Nurse, starring Eddie Redmayne and Jessica Chastain.

Watch Capturing the Killer Nurse on Netflix

Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey

Courtesy of Netflix Rulon Jeffs (enter) and wives in 'Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey'
Courtesy of Netflix Rulon Jeffs (enter) and wives in 'Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey'

The rise and fall of Warren Jeffs, the disgraced ex-president of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is chronicled in this four-part docuseries. The show includes stories from survivors and former members of the polygamy-practicing group. (The LDS church has said the FLDS has no affiliation with the wider church.) Jeffs married as many as 78 wives, including 24 underage girls, and oversaw the abuse of other women and children before his subsequent arrest and conviction.

Watch Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey on Netflix

The Real Bling Ring: Hollywood Heist

Courtesy of Netflix 'The Real Bling Ring: Hollywood Heist'
Courtesy of Netflix 'The Real Bling Ring: Hollywood Heist'

The Real Bling Ring: Hollywood Heist chronicles the real-life burglaries at celebrity homes in 2008 and 2009. The story was dramatized in Sofia Coppola's The Bling Ring in 2013. Original group members Alexis Haines (née Neiers) and Nick Prugo recall their experiences in this three-part series.

Watch The Real Bling Ring: Hollywood Heist on Netflix

Ted Bundy: Falling for a Killer

Amazon Prime Video 'Ted Bundy: Falling for a Killer'
Amazon Prime Video 'Ted Bundy: Falling for a Killer'

Ted Bundy's long-term girlfriend Elizabeth Kendall and other survivors came forward for the first time to participate in this five-part docuseries, framing his infamous crimes from a female perspective. With an emphasis on the victims, Falling for a Killer uses archival video footage, original photographs and new interviews to investigate the serial killer's attitude toward women.

Watch Ted Bundy: Falling for a Killer on Amazon Prime Video

The Most Hated Man on the Internet

Netflix Destiny Benedict in 'The Most Hated Man on the Internet'
Netflix Destiny Benedict in 'The Most Hated Man on the Internet'

In 2010, Hunter Moore, now a convicted criminal, started the website Is Anyone Up?, a porn site that primarily featured stolen and hacked photos. The site became a hub for revenge porn and doxing. A three-part docuseries, The Most Hated Man on the Internet follows one mother's mission to take down her daughter's nude photos from the site.

Watch The Most Hated Man on the Internet on Netflix

The Curse of Von Dutch: A Brand to Die For

Courtesy of Hulu 'The Curse of Von Dutch: A Brand to Die For'
Courtesy of Hulu 'The Curse of Von Dutch: A Brand to Die For'

The Curse of Von Dutch: A Brand to Die For is a three-part documentary series covering the rise and fall of the early aughts fashion brand. The series chronicles the controversy behind the iconic trucker hats, including the company's origins and its shady business practices.

Watch The Curse of Von Dutch: A Brand to Die For on Hulu

The Tinder Swindler

Courtesy of Netflix Pernilla Sjoholm in 'The Tinder Swindler'
Courtesy of Netflix Pernilla Sjoholm in 'The Tinder Swindler'

This 2022 docuseries tells the story of conman Simon Leviev (born Shimon Hayut), who swindled an estimated $10 million from people around the world. Presenting himself as the son of a Russian-Israeli diamond mogul, Hayut used Tinder to manipulate women into financially supporting his extravagant lifestyle, all while pretending he needed the money to escape his "enemies."

Watch The Tinder Swindler on Netflix

Our Father

Netflix eith Boyle as Donald Cline in 'Our Father,' 2022
Netflix eith Boyle as Donald Cline in 'Our Father,' 2022

Our Father begins with one woman's at-home DNA test, which revealed that she had multiple half-siblings, all with the same father. Former Indianapolis fertility doctor Donald Cline inseminated unsuspecting patients with his own sperm in the '70s and '80s and is confirmed to be the biological father to more than 90 children, many of whom were interviewed for this 2022 documentary.

Watch Our Father on Netflix

The Unsolved Murder of Beverly Lynn Smith

<p>Amazon Prime Video</p> 'The Unsolved Murder of Beverly Lynn Smith'

Amazon Prime Video

'The Unsolved Murder of Beverly Lynn Smith'

This four-part docuseries covers the decades-long search for justice for Beverly Lynn Smith, who was found murdered in 1974 while her 10-month-old baby slept in the next room. Featuring interviews and firsthand accounts, the series also follows a controversial sting operation, which led to more questions about Smith's death.

Watch The Unsolved Murder of Beverly Lynn Smith on Amazon Prime Video

John Wayne Gacy: Devil in Disguise

Peacock 'John Wayne Gacy: Devil in Disguise'
Peacock 'John Wayne Gacy: Devil in Disguise'

Told through the words of the serial killer himself, John Wayne Gacy: Devil in Disguise chronicles his horrifying crimes. Using 1992 interview footage of Gacy — filmed two years before his execution — this docuseries goes into his past and the investigation that led to his arrest.

Watch John Wayne Gacy: Devil in Disguise on Peacock

Athlete A

NETFLIX Maggie Nichols in 'Athlete A,' 2020
NETFLIX Maggie Nichols in 'Athlete A,' 2020

This 2020 documentary covers the survivors of abuse by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar and how the investigative team at The Indianapolis Star first broke the story. Through interviews with survivors and journalists, Athlete A reveals how USAG covered up Nassar's abuse for years before it was brought to light.

Watch Athlete A on Netflix

Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal

Netflix Matthew Modine (right) as William 'Rick' Singer in 'Peration Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal'
Netflix Matthew Modine (right) as William 'Rick' Singer in 'Peration Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal'

The 2019 college admissions scandal made headlines with famous names like Lori Loughlin and Felicity Huffman, who were later charged with fraud for their involvement. This 2021 docuseries covers the criminal acts through interviews, wiretap transcripts and reenactments.

Watch Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal on Netflix

The Way Down: God, Greed and the Cult of Gwen Shamblin

<p>HBO Max/Courtesy Everett</p> Natasha Pavlovich in 'The Way Down: The God, Green and the Cult of Gwen Shamblin'

HBO Max/Courtesy Everett

Natasha Pavlovich in 'The Way Down: The God, Green and the Cult of Gwen Shamblin'

This five-part docuseries follows Gwen Shamblin Lara, founder of the Weigh Down Workshop diet program and the new Christian group The Remnant Fellowship. Shamblin Lara, who died in a plane crash while The Way Down was in post-production, was convinced that God had given her "the key to permanent weight control."

Watch The Way Down: God, Greed and the Cult of Gwen Shamblin on Max

Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives.

Netflix Sarma Melngailis in 'Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives'
Netflix Sarma Melngailis in 'Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives'

This four-part documentary series follows the downfall of Sarma Melngailis, once the chef and owner of the popular New York City vegan restaurant Pure Food and Wine, before she met and married a con artist. Anthony Strangis, who went by Shane Fox, coerced Melngailis into transferring $1.6 million to him from the business so they could become "immortal," leaving the business nearly bankrupt.

Watch Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives. on Netflix

Allen v. Farrow

<p>HBO/Courtesy Everett</p> Dylan Farrow and Mia Farrow in 'Allen v. Farrow'

HBO/Courtesy Everett

Dylan Farrow and Mia Farrow in 'Allen v. Farrow'

The four-part docuseries Allen v. Farrow revisits the allegations of sexual abuse against Woody Allen by his daughter Dylan Farrow, whom he adopted with actress Mia Farrow. The director has denounced the series, which also documents his fallout with Mia and their custody trial, as well as his relationship with Mia's daughter, Soon-Yi Previn, whom he married in 1997.

Watch Allen v. Farrow on Max

Killer Sally

Netflix Sally McNeil in 'Killer Sally'
Netflix Sally McNeil in 'Killer Sally'

In 1995, Sally McNeil, a former bodybuilder and marine, was found guilty of second-degree murder for the death of her husband, Ray McNeil. In this three-part docuseries, McNeil tells her side of the story after serving almost 25 years in prison and maintaining that she shot her husband in self-defense.

Watch Killer Sally on Netflix

Sins of Our Mother

Courtesy of Netflix 'Sins of Our Mother'
Courtesy of Netflix 'Sins of Our Mother'

Lori Vallow was a devoted mother — until she met fifth husband Chad Daybell, who indoctrinated Vallow with extreme doomsday beliefs. Lori and Daybell have been accused of murdering two of her children, Tylee Ryan and J.J. Vallow. In this three-part series, Lori's friends and family, including her son Colby Ryan, open up about the events leading up to Tylee and J.J.'s death.

Watch Sins of Our Mother on Netflix

Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer

NETFLIX Richard Ramirez in 'Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer'
NETFLIX Richard Ramirez in 'Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer'

In mid-1980s Los Angeles, serial killer Richard Ramirez lurked at night for victims to torture and murder. The crimes and eventual arrest of Ramirez, known as the "Night Stalker," are documented in this chilling four-part series.

Watch Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer on Netflix

Captive Audience: A Real American Horror Story

Hulu 'Captive Audience: A Real American Horror Story'
Hulu 'Captive Audience: A Real American Horror Story'

Produced by brothers Anthony and Joe Russo, this three-part series will leave you feeling spooked. Seven years after disappearing from his California home, 14-year-old Steven Stayner escapes his kidnapper and returns to his family. Years later, the Stayner family were again thrust into the spotlight following the horrific crimes of Steven's serial killer brother, Cary Stayner.

Watch Captive Audience: A Real American Horror Story on Hulu

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