The world of true crime blurs the line between fact and fiction, and in recent years, true crime shows have gained immense popularity, enthralling audiences with real-life tales of murder, deception, and mystery. Paramount+ a streaming service, offers a diverse selection of true crime shows, ranging from documentaries to dramatized series.
If you’re a true crime enthusiast, we have curated a list of the best true crime shows on Paramount Plus that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. Criminal Minds (2005)
| Director | Jeff Davis |
| Cast | Kirsten Vangsness, Matthew Gray Gubler, A.J. Cook |
| IMDb | 8.1/10 |
“Criminal Minds” is an absolute must-watch series on Paramount Plus, and it stands out as an exceptional crime show that skillfully blends elements of real-life notorious cases with fiction, creating a true masterpiece!
The series revolves around the brilliant minds of the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) of the FBI. This team of highly skilled agents uses their expertise in psychology and criminology to hunt down and capture dangerous criminals. Each episode takes viewers on a thrilling ride as the team delves into the minds of killers, unravels their motives, predicts their next moves, and ultimately works to bring them to justice.
2. Snapped: Killer Couples (2013)
| Director | Christopher Mitchell |
| Cast | Anna Vocino, Emily Muse, Leigh Scarbrough |
| IMDb | 7.1/10 |
“Snapped: Killer Couples” is a riveting true crime TV show that takes a deep dive into cases where couples have committed heinous crimes together. This captivating series delves into the complex dynamics and motivations behind these chilling acts of violence.
Through interviews with law enforcement officials, friends, and family members of the couples involved, as well as expert analysis, the show sheds light on the psychology behind these crimes. It offers viewers a fascinating glimpse into the dark and often disturbing world of killer couples.
Be prepared to be engrossed in the unraveling of these shocking cases as the show unravels the twisted tales of these deadly duos.
3. Evil Lives Here (2016)
| Director | Phoebe Kwong, Joel Pincosy, J. Tom Pogue |
| Cast | James M. Reilly, T.J. Craig, Robert Levey II |
| IMDb | 8/10 |
Prepare to be chilled to the bone by “Evil Lives Here,” one of the most haunting true crime shows available on Paramount Plus. This gripping series delves deep into the lives of individuals who had no idea they were living with and loving people responsible for heinous crimes, including murder, kidnapping, and other violent acts.
Each episode of “Evil Lives Here” tells the harrowing story of a different case, presenting firsthand accounts from family members, friends, and loved ones of the criminals. Through these interviews, the show explores how these individuals managed to hide their dark side from those closest to them. It also delves into the emotional turmoil experienced by their loved ones when they came face to face with the shocking reality that they were living with evil.
This series will take you on an emotional rollercoaster as you hear the gripping and often unsettling stories of those who unknowingly shared their lives with criminals capable of unimaginable acts.
4. The Murder of Laci Peterson (2017)
| Director | Emily Dillon Berry |
| Cast | Ted Rowlands. Gloria Gomez, Nancy Grace |
| IMDb | 7.3/10 |
This powerful and emotionally charged documentary delves deep into the tragic case of Laci Peterson, whose murder and the subsequent trial captivated the entire nation.
Using a combination of interviews, archival footage, and reenactments, the series provides a vivid and compelling depiction of the evidence against Scott Peterson, the accused, and the profound emotional impact of the trial on both families involved. Moreover, it examines the role of the media in shaping public perception of the case, offering a fascinating insight into how crime and the media intersect.
Prepare to be moved and captivated as you follow the gripping and heart-wrenching story of the Peterson case.
5. The Wonderland Murders (2018)
| Director | Greg Klein, Mark Kohl |
| Cast | Rob Kimmelman, Christopher Crutchfield Walker, Lisa Sorenson |
| IMDb | 7/10 |
“The Wonderland Murders,” a gripping true crime show on Paramount Plus, delves into one of Hollywood’s most infamous and brutal crimes. This chilling series investigates the horrific “Wonderland Murders,” which occurred in a house in Laurel Canyon, California, back in 1981.
Through in-depth interviews with law enforcement officials, witnesses, and family members of the victims, as well as the use of reenactments and archival footage, the series sheds light on the disturbing and dark underbelly of the drug and pornography industries in Los Angeles during that time. The investigation unravels a complex web of deceit, greed, and violence that involves drug dealers, organized crime, and even corrupt police officers.
The series provides a thought-provoking and chilling look into the seedy world of crime and corruption in Hollywood, and it’s a must-watch for any true crime enthusiast looking to explore one of the most haunting mysteries in history.
6. Waco (2018)
| Director | Drew Dowdle, John Erick Dowdle |
| Cast | Michael Shannon, Taylor Kitsch, Andrea Riseborough |
| IMDb | 7.9/10 |
Although not strictly a true crime TV show, Waco revolves around the 1993 siege of the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas, where a 51-day standoff with law enforcement ended in a fiery tragedy, claiming the lives of 76 men, women, and children.
The series offers a glimpse into real crime events that occurred during the siege, centering on the enigmatic figure of David Koresh (Taylor Kitsch), the charismatic leader of the Branch Davidians. The deep exploration of his religious beliefs and their contribution to the group’s confrontation with law enforcement provides viewers with a rare insight into the psychology of a cult leader.
7. Interrogation (2020)
| Director | Ernest R. Dickerson, Patrick Cady |
| Cast | Peter Sarsgaard, Kyle Gallner, Kodi Smit-McPhee |
| IMDb | 7.4/10 |
Interrogation, undoubtedly one of the best true crime shows on Paramount Plus, follows the story of a young man named Eric Fisher (Kyle Gallner), who stands accused of murdering his mother.
This gripping show takes a unique approach to storytelling, as each episode presents a different angle of the investigation, allowing viewers to watch the episodes in any order they choose.
Based on a real case, the series offers a fascinating insight into the world of criminal investigations, interrogation techniques, and the legal system. As the story unfolds, viewers are presented with various suspects, motives, and pieces of evidence, encouraging them to form their own theories about the true identity of the killer.
8. NCIS (2003)
| Director | Terrence O’Hara, Tony Wharmby, James Whitmore Jr. |
| Cast | David McCallum, Sean Murray, Mark Harmon |
| IMDb | 7.8/10 |
While primarily known as a popular crime procedural and drama series, NCIS can also be regarded as a true crime series due to its focus on investigating and solving real-life criminal cases.
Starring David McCallum, the show follows a team of special agents from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), who are tasked with solving crimes involving members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The team tackles complex cases involving murder, espionage, terrorism, and more.
What sets this true crime TV show apart is its realistic portrayal of military investigations and the unique challenges faced by the NCIS team. Over its long run, the show has tackled numerous real-life cases and often incorporates real-world issues and events into its compelling storylines.
Conclusion
Paramount Plus boasts an impressive collection of true crime shows that are sure to keep you glued to your screen. Whether you’re into riveting documentaries or gripping dramatized series, this streaming service has something to satisfy every true crime enthusiast’s appetite. So, get ready to indulge in the captivating world of true crime on Paramount Plus! Don’t forget the popcorn as you sit back and immerse yourself in the thrilling and intriguing stories that await you. Happy watching!
