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The Most Chilling True Crime Documentaries on Netflix
True crime documentaries have taken the streaming world by storm, offering viewers a deep dive into some of the most shocking and unsettling stories in recent history. Netflix stands at the forefront of this genre, providing an extensive collection that examines tragic events through powerful storytelling. Below are some of the most chilling true crime documentaries available on Netflix, each a testament to the stories that unravel the human experience in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
American Murder: Gabby Petito

Released on February 17, 2025, this gripping docuseries dives into the heart-wrenching final days of Gabby Petito's life. It features intimate interviews with her loved ones, revealing the untold story behind her tragic murder. With an average rating of 4.2, this series engages viewers with its emotional depth and shocking revelations. Watch here.
American Murder: The Family Next Door

Using raw, firsthand footage, this documentary delves into the disappearance of Shanann Watts and her children, coupled with the terrible events that unfolded thereafter. Premiered on September 30, 2020, the heart-wrenching tale is rated at 3.4. This documentary compels viewers to grapple with the harsh realities of domestic life turned deadly. Watch here.
American Murder: Laci Peterson

On August 14, 2024, this investigative docuseries, rating 4.2, explored the 2002 murder case of Laci Peterson, who was eight months pregnant when she vanished. It examines the societal and media frenzy that surrounded her disappearance and subsequent murder, making it a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts. Watch here.
Chaos: The Manson Murders

This riveting documentary, released on March 6, 2025, investigates the chilling events of August 1969 when Charles Manson's followers murdered seven people under his orders. With an average rating of 3.2, it uncovers dark conspiracies involving mind control and CIA experiments intertwined with murder. Watch here.
Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives.

After marrying a mysterious man who claimed he could make her dog immortal, celebrated vegan restaurateur Sarma Melngailis finds her life spiraling out of control. This intriguing documentary, released on March 16, 2022, rated 3.1, captures the unexpected turn of an inspiring chef's life. Watch here.
Killer Sally

This true crime documentary chronicles the tumultuous relationship between bodybuilder Sally McNeil and her husband, focusing on the shocking events that culminated in a Valentine's Day murder. Released on November 2, 2022, and rated at 3.5, it intricately weaves the perspectives of family and friends into a tragic narrative. Watch here.
American Nightmare

After a harrowing home invasion and kidnapping in 2015, a couple finds themselves accused of staging their ordeal when the woman reappears. This gripping docuseries, with an average rating of 4.2 and released on January 17, 2024, captivates audiences with its unsettling exploration of truth and perception in a crime narrative. Watch here.
Worst Ex Ever

This docuseries dissects the dark side of love, revealing chilling betrayals and intricate murder plots through eyewitness testimonies. With a rating of 4, it presents exceptional narratives that resonate with anyone who's experienced the complexities of relationships. Released on August 28, 2024, it’s a must-watch for true crime aficionados. Watch here.
Sins of Our Mother

This unsettling documentary follows the mysterious disappearance of Lori Vallow's children, unfolding a shocking tale involving a new husband with doomsday beliefs and a series of suspicious deaths. Released on September 14, 2022, and rated at 3.5, it intricately reveals the layers of deception entwined in familial relationships. Watch here.
Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey

This documentary features interviews and rare home video footage from ex-FLDS members sharing their experiences of isolation and the events that led them to leave their insular community. Released on June 8, 2022, and rated 3.9, it offers a compelling look into the world of fundamentalist views and the struggle for freedom. Watch here.
Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich

This powerful docuseries examines the abuses inflicted by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, narrated through the experiences of survivors who share their harrowing stories. Released on May 27, 2020, with an average rating of 3.4, this series is a stark indictment of privilege and power disparity. Watch here.
The Murdaugh Murders

This deeply investigative series gives a voice to a determined reporter as he interviews Alex Murdaugh, seeking answers about the alleged murders of his wife and son. Released on October 14, 2023, and boasting a perfect rating of 5, it is a captivating look at a scandal that shook the legal world. Watch here.
I AM A KILLER

This riveting documentary series features death row inmates who recount the details of their crimes, allowing audiences a thoughtful exploration into the psyche of those convicted of capital murder. Released on January 8, 2025, and carrying an average rating of 4, it invites viewers to examine morality and justice in a profound way. Watch here.
Athlete A

Following the Indianapolis Star reporters who broke the story about USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar's abuse, this documentary provides a compelling narrative through testimonials from gymnasts. Released on June 24, 2020, and rated at 3.8, it reveals the dark underbelly of competitive sports culture. Watch here.
Lover, Stalker, Killer

This twisting documentary follows a mechanic's first foray into online dating and the deadly obsession that ensues after he meets a woman. Premiered on February 9, 2024, and rated at 4.2, it explores the dangers of romantic entanglement in the digital age. Watch here.
Our Father

This provocative documentary centers around a woman whose DNA test unveils a shocking secret involving donor sperm and a popular fertility doctor. Released on May 11, 2022, and rated at 3.5, it reflects on trust, family, and identity in the modern world. Watch here.
Strong Island

This poignant documentary interrogates the violent death of filmmaker Yance Ford’s brother, revealing the failings of the judicial system that allowed his killer to evade justice. Released on January 23, 2017, with a rating of 3, it addresses complex themes of racial perception and societal injustice, challenging viewers to reflect on change. Watch here.
These documentaries don’t just tell true crime stories; they explore the complexities of human nature, societal norms, and the often harrowing pursuit of justice. They remind us of the fragility of life and how true realities can often be stranger than fiction. Dive in and experience the chilling narratives awaiting you on Netflix — if you dare!
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