11 Gripping True Crime Podcasts You Absolutely Can't Miss

Prepare for a chilling journey into the life of Charles Harrelson, a notorious hitman and father to actor Woody Harrelson. In "Son of a Hitman," host Jason Cavanagh takes listeners on a real-time investigation, uncovering secrets and delving deep into crimes shrouded in mystery. Produced by Spotify Studios and Tradecraft, this podcast reveals new evidence that some may prefer to keep hidden, making every episode a thrilling experience. Listen here.

Uncover the tragic story of Dorothy Stratten, a young Playboy model entwined in a tale of ambition, beauty, and murder. "Death of a Starlet" explores how her dreams tragically led to her death, amidst the intense obsessions of those around her. Brought to you by Wondery, this six-part series paints a detailed picture of love, fame, and the darkness lurking behind the Hollywood facade. Listen here.

Experience the gut-wrenching ordeal of the Bright family in "Do No Harm." When a simple accident spirals into a bureaucratic nightmare, the podcast highlights systemic flaws in child protection that wrongly target innocent parents. Hosted by Mike Hixenbaugh, this gripping six-episode series sheds light on harsh realities and the resilience of families caught in the crossfire. Listen here.

Every Tuesday, join Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi and Scott Weinberger as they unravel the complex layers behind murder cases. "Anatomy of Murder" provides unique insights into the investigations, offering a detailed exploration into true crime narratives from victim to resolution. A must-listen for those fascinated by the intricacies of crime-solving. Listen here.

Embark on a captivating journey as "CounterClock" turns back the hands of time to re-examine cold cases. Each season breathes new life into unsolved mysteries, piecing together evidence with hopes of uncovering the truth. Rated highly by listeners, it's an immersive experience into the forgotten stories yearning to be solved. Listen here.

Explore the gripping storyline of Erik Maund in "The Problem with Erik." With an affair turned blackmail, Erik's response sets off a cascade of deadly events. Hosted by Katy Vine, this podcast delves into a world of deception and miscommunication in the Lone Star State, providing a riveting listen to Texas Monthly fans. Listen here.

Dive into the still-unfolding mystery of Jennifer Kesse, a case riddled with unanswered questions and gripping revelations. Crime reporter Cristina Corbin spearheads this exploration, bringing new perspectives and insights to the ongoing investigation. It's a captivating listen for those intrigued by enduring mysteries. Listen here.

Legendary crime author M. William Phelps guides listeners into the enigma of multiple disappearances in the Ozarks. Set against a backdrop of beauty and danger, "Paper Ghosts" peels back the layers of a case that echoes with suspicion and intrigue. Experience a masterful unfolding of suspense and detective work. Listen here.

Relive the harrowing day of the 1966 University of Texas tower shooting with "Darkness." In its fourth season, the podcast sheds light on the first known mass shooting in a school setting, analyzing its impact on today's discussions about gun control. Hosted by Sara Kinney, it’s a poignant reminder of history’s darker shadows. Listen here.

TRace the heart-wrenching story of Shapearl Wells as she searches for the truth about her son's murder outside a Chicago police station. In "Somebody," listeners discover the struggle of confronting systemic racial disparities within law enforcement. In collaboration with prestigious media groups, this podcast is a compelling narrative of resilience and advocacy. Listen here.

Discover the dark underbelly of self-help gurus in "Guru: The Dark Side of Enlightenment," which tackles the story of James Arthur Ray. Hosted by Matt Stroud, the podcast digs into manipulative practices within the self-improvement industry, exploring themes of trust and betrayal. It’s a fascinating listen for those wary of the promises of enlightenment. Listen here.