I’m a bit of a true crime junkie. While many people gravitate toward reality TV, this genre serves as my version of it. However, I don’t watch these shows casually. Instead, I approach them from a detective’s perspective—I want to understand the crime, learn the facts, and try to solve the mystery myself.
In addition, the drama and backstory add depth and context. They help explain how events unfolded and what ultimately led up to each crime. For that reason, I find these stories both fascinating and unsettling. Below are some of my favorite Netflix true crime picks, organized by docuseries and documentary-style films.These are shows I’ve watched over years and think most are still available for streaming.
True Crime Docuseries
- Dirty John (1 Season) – This is one is shocking. Anyone who has tried online dating will recognize how important caution can be. The chain of events feels unbelievable, and the story proves just how blind love can become. Every episode ends on a cliff-hanger.
- Narcos (3 Seasons) – This series follows the rise and fall of Colombian drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and tracks the DEA’s battle in the war on drugs. The intensity never lets up, and it’s hard to believe how much of this story actually happened. The show is incredibly binge-worthy. Narcos: Mexico continues the story with a focus on a Mexican cartel and is next on my list.
- The Disappearance of Madeleine McCann (1 Season) – This docuseries explores the 2007 disappearance of a young girl taken from her bed while vacationing with her family. Ongoing speculation about her survival keeps the case compelling and invites viewers to form their own theories.
- The Mind of Aaron Hernandez (1 Season) – This series tells the tragic and disturbing story of former New England Patriots player Aaron Hernandez. I went into this knowing very little, which made the revelations even more shocking. The series shows how long he managed to hide his crimes while maintaining a public image.
- The People v. OJ Simpson (1 Season) – This retelling focuses on the trial and the opposing legal strategies that shaped the outcome. The series offers a fresh perspective as O.J.’s own lawyer begins to question his integrity. The ending still feels unbelievable.
- Unbelievable (1 Season) – Based on a true story, this series centers on the investigation rather than sensationalizing the crimes. The focus on the surrounding events and the pursuit of justice kept me watching until the end.
True Crime Documentaries
- Amanda Knox (1h 32m) – This documentary examines the case in depth and challenges viewers to question the verdict. After watching, I still felt uncertain about the outcome. Was Amanda guilty? This was the first true crime documentary I watched on Netflix and the reason I signed up.
- Chappaquiddick (1h 46m) – This film recounts Senator Ted Kennedy’s infamous car crash and the scandal that followed. The story shows how one event reshaped his career and public image.
- The Highwaymen (2h 12m) – This film tells the story of Bonnie and Clyde from the perspective of the lawmen tasked with capturing them. Kevin Costner’s performance adds a nostalgic touch to a compelling retelling.
This is my list as of now. I will be sure to add to it as more favorites come up that are worth sharing. Do you have any true crime shows on Netflix to share? Please let me know if you do! I can always use new shows or get them on my list.
View my Top 5+ Netflix show recommendations, here; my Period Drama favorites, here; and my favorite Daphne du Maurier movies, here.
xx, ej
