True crime is one of the hottest genres right now, drawing millions of viewers into stories of mystery, justice, and human psychology. From unsolved murders to elaborate scams, true crime shows educate audiences on what really happened to victims, offer new explanations for the wrongly accused, and explore lingering questions about infamous cases.
With interest in true crime seemingly at an all-time high, it’s no surprise that streaming platforms are constantly releasing new docuseries that immerse viewers in the details of real-life investigations.
According to Jean Kim, M.D., audiences are “entranced by the reassuring narrative formula” of true crime stories, which often offer a sense of moral clarity and remind viewers of their own good fortune in avoiding similar fates.
Streaming Platforms Fuel the True Crime Boom
The explosion of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Peacock has given true crime creators the freedom to tell stories without the limitations of traditional network television. The looser restrictions allow producers to portray crimes with a raw authenticity—even when the content is gory or disturbing.
