March 18, 2024
Discover the best True Crime podcasts, one of the most popular genres as they delve into real-life criminal cases, mysteries, and investigations.
These podcasts tap in to how we like to explore the darker side of human behaviour.
Our only caveat with some true crime podcasts is they can be frustrating if the case hasn’t been solved and they use the podcast to try and get further evidence.
Real Crime Profile
Jim Clemente (former FBI profiler), Laura Richards (criminal behavioural analyst, former New Scotland Yard) and Lisa Zambetti (Casting director for CBS’ Criminal Minds) as they profile behaviour from real criminal cases.
The hosts often break down high-profile criminal cases, exploring the psychological aspects of the perpetrators and victims, as well as the tactics used by law enforcement to solve these cases. They also discuss the impact of these crimes on society and the criminal justice system.
It’s a unique perspective on true crime, going beyond the sensationalism often associated with the genre to provide thoughtful analysis and expert commentary on the cases it covers. Nearly 500 episodes taking two to three to tell a story.
Serial
One of the original true crime podcasts that built up a huge following.
It follows the case of high-school senior, Hae Min Lee, who disappears after school one day and six years later her classmate and ex-boyfriend is arrested.
The podcast is over three series with the first covering events in 2014 and the third events in 2022. This podcast launched the true crime genre on the basis that a well-researched and told story could generate such a large following
Dirty John
The podcast tells the true story of Debra Newell and her relationship with John Meehan. Debra, a wealthy and successful interior designer, met John on an online dating website.
Initially charming and seemingly perfect, John quickly worked his way into Debra’s life, despite her family’s suspicions and warnings. As their relationship deepened, it became clear that John was not who he appeared to be.
John had a history of criminal activity, deception, and manipulation. The success of the podcast led to a TV series adaptation.
Criminal
Criminal is a true crime podcast that explores a wide range of intriguing and obscure criminal cases from around the world.
What sets “Criminal” apart from other true crime podcasts is its unique approach to storytelling and its focus on both well-known and lesser-known criminal cases.
The show incorporates a mix of narrative styles, including interviews with victims, witnesses, law enforcement, and sometimes even the perpetrators themselves. Each episode deals with a different case and typically run for 20-30 minutes.
Root of Evil
“Root of Evil” is a true crime podcast that explores a deeply disturbing and multifaceted family mystery, often regarded as one of the most sinister and unsettling cases in the history of Los Angeles.
The podcast is rooted in the infamous Black Dahlia murder case, which occurred in Los Angeles in 1947 when aspiring actress Elizabeth Short was brutally murdered.
The Black Dahlia case remains one of the most notorious unsolved murders in American history.
However, what’s unusual about the podcast is that it is hosted by the great granddaughters of one of the prime suspects and, as they delve deeper into a family history, so they discover a number of secrets.
In The Dark
This podcast is known for its in-depth and comprehensive examination of criminal justice issues, including wrongful convictions, botched investigations, and the broader implications for the justice system.
Each season of “In the Dark” centers around a different criminal justice case or issue.
The podcast critically examines the complexities and shortcomings within the justice system.
It often involves extensive research, investigative reporting, and interviews with key individuals involved in the cases. “In the Dark” aims to shed light on the systemic failures and injustices that can occur within law enforcement, courtrooms, and correctional systems.
As well as being highly acclaimed, In The Dark has raised public awareness to injustices and made a significant impact in advocating for criminal justice reform and transparency in the legal system.
You Must Remember This
This is more of a history rather than a crime podcast, but there is one series that warrants inclusion – Charles Manson’s Hollywood.
We all know the background to the horrific slaying of amongst others Sharon Tate but no one tells the story quite as well as Karina Longworth in this series.
Longworth weaves together the stories of Manson, his followers, their victims, and the people in their greater orbit — including a who’s who of the Laurel Canyon folk-pop scene in the 1960s.
After an entire episode examining the myths surrounding the events, she probes the lives of Terry Melcher, Jay Sebring, and Roman Polanski; the most heart breaking is probably that of Dennis Wilson, the Beach Boys drummer apparently so haunted by his involvement that his life unravels completely.
Filthy Ritual
If you were told by a healer that you are in danger of developing a cancer and must send thousands and thousands of pounds to a Shaman in Surinam who will then pin this cash to a sacred tree – Would you do it?
I’m sure you wouldn’t but many did and this six – part podcast tells the story of one of the most prolific con women in British history.
Sweet Bobby
A true story of a woman who for a decade was the subject of a catfish (when someone assumes a different identity on the internet) for the purpose of deception.
You may wonder how someone could be misled for so long but it’s entirely believable and what is equally unbelievable is that catfishing is not a criminal offence in the UK.
Lady Killers
A true crime podcast that focuses on stories of female criminals, their motivations, and the circumstances that led them to commit heinous acts. The podcast is hosted by Lucy Worsley, who explores the lives and crimes of infamous and lesser-known female killers throughout history.
Each episode delves into the psychology, social context, and often sensational aspects of these cases.
Lady Killers provides a unique perspective and highlights the historical and societal factors that have influenced these women to commit crimes.
It’s a podcast that combines elements of history, psychology, and crime storytelling to create a captivating and informative listening experience.
If you have a true crime podcast for us, please tell us about it.
If you like True Crime podcasts then our recommendations of History podcasts may interest you.
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