Finding the truth: Documentary on legacy of 'Unsolved Mysteries' begins to stream

Oct. 7—"For every mystery, there is someone, somewhere, who knows the truth. Perhaps that someone is watching. Perhaps it's you."

This is the phrase that ran before an episode of "Unsolved Mysteries."

In 1987, Terry Dunn Meurer never realized that the series was going to be part of popular culture when she co-created it along with John Cosgrove.

It was hosted by Robert Stack for seasons and gained a devoted following.

"Unsolved Mysteries," a unique hybrid of news magazine and drama offering a mix of true-crime stories, legends of the paranormal, and tales of loved ones separated by time and geography, spent nine seasons on NBC before moving to CBS for two more seasons — and was the very first program that enabled audiences to play a role in helping an investigation by submitting their own story or sending in a tip.

The show also served as a launching pad for now A-list actors including Matthew McConaughey, Daniel Dae Kim, Taran Killam, Cheryl Hines and David Ramsey, among others. To date, loyal viewers have helped solve more than 260 cases, bringing over 180 fugitives to justice and reunite more than 100 families.

"We had 1,300 stories over the course of 200 episodes," Dunn Meurer recalls. "There was a lot of work that was done to keep this show running. People are still watching it in syndication and cases continue to be solved."

To honor its 35th anniversary, FilmRise and series creators Cosgrove/Meurer Productions are premiering a compelling documentary that will give viewers a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of the groundbreaking true-crime show — "Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy."

The all-new feature debuted exclusively on Pluto TV on Thursday, Oct. 5, and then streaming beginning Oct. 19, on major platforms including Amazon Freevee, Tubi, The Roku Channel, Samsung TV Plus and FilmRise's own free streaming apps.

During her time with the show, Dunn Meurer recalls New Mexico cases and stories.

"I remember scouting for a few of the stories," she says. "One of the stories that sticks out is the miraculous staircase in Santa Fe. These were stories that captivated audiences far and wide. My parents used to live in Santa Fe, and my brother lives there as well. It was always great having the chance to get out there."

Dunn Meurer is impressed that 30-plus years after its debut, audiences are still tuning in and taking part in helping solve crimes.

"One of the things we didn't expect is how viewers could come back with syndication," she says. "What's great is that we have DNA solving cases today. We have to be vigilant in updating the shows. Believe me, if we don't update a case, we will get tips and emails about it."

"Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy" features original interviews with Dunn Meurer and Cosgrove, along with long-time producers, and directors of the show, pulling back the curtain and allowing fans to experience their favorite cases in a whole new light.

The crew divulges behind the scenes stories and covers all aspects of the show from research and casting to solving mysteries soon after episodes aired.

With never-before-seen outtakes of beloved host Robert Stack and a look into some fan-favorite moments, "Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy" honors one of television's most enduring and recognizable shows as well as the fans who were integral to its success.

Dunn Meurer is excited for the documentary to be out because the series has been a labor of love for decades.

"We wanted to give a behind-the-scenes look at how episodes came together," she says. "It's taking a closer look at the legacy of the series."

SEND ME YOUR TIPS: If you know of a movie filming in the state, or are curious about one, email film@ABQjournal.com. Follow me on Twitter @agomezART.