Get your snacks ready!
By Jessica Lane
Updated: May 23, 2022
Originally Published: Feb. 28, 2022
Let’s face it — there’s an undeniable allure to true crime documentaries. Maybe they offer a thrilling contrast to our mundane lives (guilty as charged), or perhaps they provide a safe escape into danger. Regardless, many of us are captivated by tales of real crimes involving theft, deception, betrayal, and murder. While it might seem odd that so many people indulge in these darker narratives, the popularity of these headline-inspired series continues to soar.
Streaming platforms and networks are rapidly adapting true crime stories to present them in compelling ways. Some documentaries feature the criminals themselves, while others let victims and experts share their perspectives. Furthermore, while many of these narratives conclude with resolutions, some leave viewers pondering unresolved mysteries, allowing for personal interpretations of the endings.
What does this fascination with the macabre reveal about our nature? Are we simply curious, or is there something more? Psychologist Emily Carter, Ph.D., explains, “Watching true crime isn’t bizarre; it’s a natural human curiosity. These stories give us insight into the minds of individuals who commit horrific acts.” Interestingly, research indicates that women are particularly drawn to true crime, possibly due to an instinctual desire for self-protection. “We often engage with true crime to learn how to avoid becoming victims ourselves,” Dr. Carter adds.
So, it’s educational too! The challenge lies in deciding which series to binge-watch while obsessively searching for every name and detail connected to the stories. With a plethora of true crime content available, here’s a roundup of the most intriguing documentaries and series debuting in 2022.
Best New True Crime Documentaries of 2022 (So Far)
- The Tinder Swindler
Premiered: Feb. 2
Where to watch: Netflix
Prepare for an engrossing evening! This documentary follows three women who were conned out of thousands by a man they met on Tinder. He posed as a wealthy heir, charming them into falling for him before swindling them. - King of the Con
Premiered: Jan. 14
Where to watch: Discovery+
Barry Minkow is an expert at deception, continually reinventing himself to enrich his life. This documentary provides a captivating look at his life and the crimes he committed. - Inventing Anna
Premiered: Feb. 11
Where to watch: Netflix
Anna Sorokin, aka Anna Delvey, lived lavishly in New York City, convincing those around her that she was a wealthy German heiress. This series, created by Shonda Rhimes, chronicles her rise and fall. - BTK: Confessions of a Serial Killer
Premiered: Jan. 8
Where to watch: A&E
This docuseries offers a chilling examination of Dennis Rader, the BTK Killer, through the insights of forensic and psychological experts. - Murder Under the Friday Night Lights
Premiered: Jan. 4
Where to watch: ID
This series dives into the intersection of high school football and crime in small towns, exploring the impact of tragic events on these close-knit communities. - Scream: The True Story
Premiered: Jan. 14
Where to watch: Discovery+
With the resurgence of the Scream franchise, this docu-special investigates whether the real-life inspiration for the series, Danny Rolling, was influenced by supernatural forces. - The Dropout
Premiered: March 3
Where to watch: Hulu
Based on a popular podcast, this series tells the story of Elizabeth Holmes and her fraudulent health tech company, Theranos. - Bad Vegan
Premiered: March 16
Where to watch: Netflix
This four-part series chronicles the rise and fall of celebrity restaurateur Sarma Melngailis, dubbed the “Vegan Fugitive” after she went on the run with nearly $2 million in stolen funds. - Scott Peterson: The Friends Speak
Premiered: Jan. 9
Where to watch: REELZ
This docuseries revisits the 20-year-old case of Laci Peterson’s disappearance and the subsequent accusations against her husband, Scott Peterson, through the eyes of those closest to them. - For Heaven’s Sake
Premiered: 2021
Where to watch: Paramount+
While it debuted in 2021, this comedic docuseries about a historical missing person case remains a fresh watch as Mike Mildon seeks to uncover the truth behind his great-great-uncle’s disappearance. - Captive Audience: A Real American Horror Story
Premiered: 2022
Where to watch: Hulu
The story of Steven Stayner’s abduction unfolds with shocking revelations, exploring the dark secrets within his family. - Under the Banner of Heaven
Premiered: 2022
Where to watch: Hulu
This true crime series follows Detective Jeb Pyre as he investigates the brutal murder of Brenda Wright Lafferty and her infant daughter in Utah.
Bonus! Most Anticipated New True Crime Documentaries
- Perfect World: The Gamer Murders
Premiered: March 8
Where to watch: Peacock
Based on a Vice article, this miniseries follows gamers who band together to stop a murderer in their midst. - Trust No One: The Hunt for The Crypto King
Premiered: March 30
Where to watch: Netflix
After the death of crypto millionaire Gerry Cotten, investors work together to uncover the truth and recover their lost money. - The Staircase
Premiered: May 5
Where to watch: Peacock
This dramatized documentary features a star-studded cast and explores the bizarre true story behind the infamous staircase murder case.
If you’re fascinated by true crime and want more insights, check out our other blog post here.
Summary
2022 has brought a wealth of gripping true crime documentaries and series that delve into the darkest corners of human behavior. From tales of deception and betrayal to unsolved mysteries, these selections are sure to satisfy any true crime enthusiast’s cravings. Whether you prefer dramatic retellings or factual documentaries, there’s something for everyone to explore.