7 riveting true crime shows that expose the dark side of human nature

If you’re someone who loves mysteries, psychological twists, and stories based on shocking real-life crimes, true crime shows offer a mix of suspense, emotion, and chilling revelations. 

These series dive deep into the minds of criminals, the intensity of investigations, and the haunting truths behind some of the most disturbing cases. 

Here are seven of the most riveting true crime shows you can stream right now.

Also Read: 7 gripping whodunit mystery shows that will keep you guessing till the end

1. Black Bird – Apple TV+

Based on a true story, Black Bird follows Jimmy Keene (Taron Egerton), a charismatic high school football star whose life spirals out of control when he’s sentenced to 10 years in prison for drug trafficking. His only shot at freedom comes with a chilling deal from the FBI — befriend suspected serial killer Larry Hall (Paul Walter Hauser) and extract a confession.

As Jimmy dives into Hall’s twisted psyche, manipulation and empathy blur, revealing the darkness of the human mind. What begins as a mission for redemption becomes a terrifying psychological battle. Both Egerton and Hauser deliver unforgettable performances, making Black Bird an emotional and tense masterpiece.

2. Indian Predator – Netflix

This gripping docuseries anthology explores India’s most shocking real-life murder cases. Each season uncovers the psyche of a different criminal and the horrors of their crimes through police accounts, witness interviews, and media coverage.

From The Butcher of Delhi — a killer who left dismembered bodies across the city — to The Diary of a Serial Killer involving cannibalism, Murder in a Courtroom, and Beast of Bangalore, based on ex-cop Umesh Reddy, every story reveals chilling details about justice and the human mind. Indian Predator is raw, unsettling, and unflinchingly real.

3. Under the Banner of Heaven – JioHotstar

Set in 1984 Utah, Under the Banner of Heaven stars Andrew Garfield as Detective Jeb Pyre, a devout Mormon investigating the brutal murder of a young woman, Brenda Lafferty (Daisy Edgar-Jones), and her baby. As he digs deeper, he uncovers dark secrets within his religious community and the fanaticism that led to the crime.

The series masterfully blends crime and faith, showing how belief can sometimes cross into extremism. Garfield’s nuanced performance captures a man torn between his faith and the horrifying truths he uncovers.

4. Under the Bridge – JioHotstar

Based on true events, Under the Bridge recounts the 1997 murder of 14-year-old Reena Virk in British Columbia. After Reena disappears following a party, the investigation unravels a shocking story of peer violence and betrayal.

Through the eyes of author Rebecca Godfrey and police officer Cam Bentland, the series examines teenage cruelty, alienation, and the dark side of adolescence. Emotional and unsettling, Under the Bridge is a powerful exploration of bullying and the consequences of social exclusion.

5. The Raincoat Killer: Chasing a Predator in Korea – Netflix

This Korean docuseries chronicles the horrifying crimes of Yoo Young-chul, one of South Korea’s most notorious serial killers. Between 2003 and 2004, he targeted wealthy victims and sex workers, shocking the nation.

Through interviews with detectives, journalists, and survivors, The Raincoat Killer reconstructs the investigation and exposes the social conditions that enabled his crimes. The series is both disturbing and insightful, offering a glimpse into the meticulous hunt for justice.

6. Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer – Netflix

Night Stalker brings to life the terrifying reign of serial killer Richard Ramirez, who terrorized California during the 1980s. Through chilling survivor testimonies, crime scene footage, and interviews with detectives, the series shows how his unpredictable attacks created widespread fear.

What makes Night Stalker so compelling is its human element — the determination of the investigators, the courage of the victims, and the community’s resilience. It’s a dark but inspiring story of perseverance amid horror.

Also read: Masterminds and mayhem: 5 brilliant heist movies and shows you can’t miss

7. The Keepers – Netflix

One of the most emotionally powerful true crime series ever made, The Keepers investigates the unsolved 1969 murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik, a beloved nun and teacher from Baltimore. Decades later, her former students suspect that her death was linked to sexual abuse within the Catholic Church — a conspiracy that authorities may have covered up.

As they reopen the case, the women confront trauma, silence, and institutional power. The Keepers goes beyond crime; it’s a haunting exploration of faith, courage, and the fight for truth.