Cold Case Files

Watch Cold Case Files

  • TV-MA
  • 2003
  • 11 Seasons
  • 8.0  (1,895)

Cold Case Files is a gripping true crime series that aired on A&E in 1999, hosted by veteran journalist Bill Kurtis. The show takes viewers on a journey inside some of the most challenging and long-forgotten criminal investigations in American history. Each episode of Cold Case Files features a high-profile unsolved crime, which has been reopened by law enforcement authorities to bring closure to the victim's family and to bring the perpetrator of the crime to justice.

The show's unique format is presented from the perspective of the detectives who originally investigated the case and who are now working to solve it. The episodes take viewers through the initial clues, interviews, and crime scene photos, as well as staged reenactments and interviews with the surviving family members of the victims. It is a compelling blend of expert police work and cinematic storytelling that has made it one of the most popular true crime series of all time.

Each episode of Cold Case Files takes viewers through a specific case, examining every angle and detail of the investigation. From witness testimony to forensic evidence, every clue is explored in depth to determine the most likely suspects and build the strongest case for prosecution. The show's style of storytelling creates an immersive experience for viewers and keeps them engaged throughout the episode, creating a connection with both the detectives and the victims' families.

The show covers a wide range of cases, including crimes such as murder, kidnapping, and even disappearances. Each episode is exhaustively researched, with experts and professionals called in to provide insight into the different aspects of the case. The process of investigation is carefully detailed, and viewers are taken into the mindset of the detectives who are working tirelessly to solve the case.

The show also highlights how detective work has evolved over the years, with advancements in forensic science and technology. In many cases, the cases originally went unsolved due to lack of evidence or inability to connect the dots. However, with the evolution of DNA testing and other forensic techniques, previously unsolvable cases have been solved, bringing long-awaited closure to the families of the victims.

One of the most compelling aspects of Cold Case Files is the human element of the series. The cases chosen for the show are not just any old crimes, but rather ones with a particularly emotional impact on the victims' families. Many of the cases go back decades, and the families have been living with unanswered questions for years. The show allows them to tell their stories and offers hope that their loved one's killer may finally be brought to justice.

Throughout the series, Bill Kurtis delivers a steady and authoritative presence as the host of the show, thoughtfully guiding viewers through each case. His vast experience as a journalist and his calm and measured demeanor make him the ideal host for the show. Kurtis provides important context and insight into each case, but never detracts from the work of the detectives.

In conclusion, Cold Case Files is a groundbreaking true crime series that set the standard for similar shows to come. Its unique storytelling format, rigorous research and dedication to finding justice for the victims have made it a classic in the true crime genre. Its success has also spawned spinoff series and primetime specials, making it a true cultural phenomenon.

Cold Case Files is a series that is currently running and has 11 seasons (218 episodes). The series first aired on June 30, 2003.

Cold Case Files
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Seasons
The Rifkin Murders. Part 2
8. The Rifkin Murders. Part 2
September 30, 2023
Summary is not available.
The Rifkin Murders. Part 1
7. The Rifkin Murders. Part 1
September 30, 2023
Summary is not available.
Taken In Tacoma
6. Taken In Tacoma
September 24, 2022
When 13-year-old Jennifer Bastian is abducted and murdered in August of 1986, residents of Tacoma panic. This is the second young girl killed in five months. Convinced a predator is loose, Police embark on a 32-year enquiry to catch the killer.
Vanished In Virginia
5. Vanished In Virginia
September 17, 2022
When a 30-year-old mother, Lisa Gaudenzi, fails to report for duty in Virginia, the Army lists her as AWOL. Her family immediately suspects foul play. They embark on a 13-year quest for answers before an eyewitness blows the case wide open.
Death Of A Hero
4. Death Of A Hero
September 10, 2022
A fire in January 2007 claims the life of WWII vet Bennie Angelo. A closer look at the crime scene reveals Bennie was dead before the fire, bumping an arson case up to homicide. Leads are few and the case sits on ice - until a witness comes forward.
Murder In The Midwest
3. Murder In The Midwest
August 27, 2022
The body of Lori Nesson is found in a ditch in 1974, yet her death is not ruled a homicide. But Lori's sister knows this has to be murder. After 4 decades, the cause of death is changed to homicide.
Gone In a New York Minute
2. Gone In a New York Minute
September 3, 2022
In a city of eight million, landlord Bruce Blackwood disappears without a trace in March 2006. Though there is no body, the NYPD is sure this is a homicide and they, along with Bruce's brother Ed, spend the next nine years searching for answers.
Killer in the Storm
1. Killer in the Storm
August 20, 2022
After a young mother's death in 1988 goes unsolved, her older sister promises to solve the crime, no matter how long it takes, so she sets about on a quest for answers to determine who killed the victim in her own home and why.
Description
Where to Watch Cold Case Files
Cold Case Files is available for streaming on the A&E website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Cold Case Files on demand at Apple TV Channels, Discovery+, Amazon Prime, Philo, Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Vudu, The Roku Channel Free, Sling, Google Play, Apple TV, A&E and Tubi TV.
  • Premiere Date
    June 30, 2003
  • IMDB Rating
    8.0  (1,895)