Watch An American Murder Mystery: The Staircase

An American Murder Mystery: The Staircase is a true crime series that looks into the controversial and complex case of the death of Kathleen Peterson. The show premiered on Investigation Discovery in 2017 and continued through 2018, offering viewers a close and in-depth look into one of the most notorious murder trials in American history.

The series is presented by former CNN legal analyst Beth Karas, who acts as the lead commentator throughout the show. Karas is joined by Jim Hardin, a respected attorney who offers his expert analysis on the legal proceedings, and Candace Zamperini, a criminal psychologist who provides her insight into the forensic evidence and the mind of the accused.

The show's focus is on the trial of Michael Peterson, an acclaimed author and former newspaper columnist, who was accused of murdering his wife Kathleen at their home in Durham, North Carolina. On December 9, 2001, Michael called 911 and reported that he had found his wife at the bottom of the staircase in their home. He claimed that Kathleen had fallen down the stairs and died from her injuries. However, the authorities suspected foul play, and Michael was soon arrested and charged with murder.

The documentary examines the case in great detail, delving into the evidence presented during the trial, including photographs of the crime scene, medical reports, and witness testimony. It also explores the theories put forward by both the prosecution and the defense, providing a comprehensive look at the various arguments and opinions surrounding the case.

Throughout the series, viewers are given access to exclusive interviews with key figures involved in the trial, including Michael Peterson himself, his family and friends, as well as the investigators and prosecutors working on the case. The interviews provide a unique insight into the mindsets of those at the center of the trial and the impact that the case had on their lives.

One of the main themes of the show is the debate surrounding the reliability of forensic evidence, particularly the use of blood spatter analysis in the case. This issue became a significant point of contention during the trial, with the prosecution arguing that the pattern of bloodstains suggested that Kathleen had been beaten to death by Michael, while the defense asserted that the blood spatter could have been caused by Kathleen falling down the stairs. The series presents the evidence surrounding this debate in a clear and concise manner, allowing viewers to form their own opinions on the matter.

Overall, An American Murder Mystery: The Staircase is a gripping and thought-provoking documentary series that provides a detailed examination of one of the most controversial murder trials of the 21st century. With its expert commentary and exclusive access to key figures in the case, the show offers a comprehensive look at the complex and often fascinating world of forensic science and criminal justice.

An American Murder Mystery: The Staircase is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (4 episodes). The series first aired on April 8, 2018.