Watch The Mind of a Murderer

The Mind of a Murderer is a documentary series that premiered on Investigation Discovery in 2015. The show explores the psychology of killers, examining their motives and thought processes leading up to their gruesome crimes. The host and star of the show is criminal psychologist Michelle Ward, who takes viewers on an intimate journey into the minds of some of the most notorious killers in history.

Each episode of The Mind of a Murderer focuses on a different case, typically featuring a single killer and their particular story. Michelle Ward begins by delving into the killer's background and early life, attempting to locate the origin of their violent tendencies. She speaks with family members, acquaintances, and sometimes even the killers themselves, in order to piece together a comprehensive portrait of the individual in question.

As the investigation proceeds, viewers are brought deeper into the psychological labyrinth of the killer's mind. Michelle Ward unpacks the various factors that contribute to each killer's particular brand of madness, exploring their unique motivators, triggers, and compulsions. Along the way, she relies heavily on her expertise as a criminal psychologist, analyzing everything from the killer's body language to the semantics of their speech.

One of the strengths of The Mind of a Murderer is its ability to humanize the killers it profiles. Rather than simply sensationalizing their crimes, the show takes a more compassionate approach, acknowledging the complex emotional and psychological factors that often lead individuals down the path of violence. Michelle Ward is particularly adept at drawing out the humanity of her subjects, portraying them not as cartoonish villains but as flawed and often deeply troubled human beings.

Despite the show's sympathies, however, it does not shy away from the more gruesome details of the crimes it covers. From serial killers to spree shooters, the show does not shy away from the brutality of the crimes, nor does it attempt to sugarcoat the horrors of murder.

Overall, The Mind of a Murderer is a fascinating and often chilling exploration of the darkest corners of the human psyche. With Michelle Ward as its confident and knowledgeable guide, the show delivers a compelling blend of true crime, psychology, and human interest. Whether you're a true crime enthusiast or simply interested in the workings of the human mind, The Mind of a Murderer is definitely worth a watch.

Note: The Mind of a Murderer ran for two seasons on Investigation Discovery before being cancelled in 2017. Despite its relatively short run, the show remains a popular favorite among true crime fans, particularly for its unique blend of empathy and fascination with some of history's most notorious killers.

The Mind of a Murderer is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (14 episodes). The series first aired on February 19, 2015.