Watch Crime Beat

Crime Beat is a thrilling Canadian television series that debuted in 2020 on Global. It is a crime series with a unique twist: it focuses not on the detectives, but on the journalists who cover the crime. The show is based on the popular podcast of the same name created by crime reporter Nancy Hixt. Serving as the host and the nucleus of the show, Hixt brings her wealth of experience from her 20 years of crime reporting to provide an in-depth lens into the gritty, shocking, and chilling crime tales.

Each episode of Crime Beat is centered around a specific crime case, ranging from murder and abduction to fraud and robbery. The show integrates a realistic and authentic approach by using real call recordings, crime scene footages, and interviews with investigators, victims, and often, the perpetrators themselves.

Hixt masterfully untangles the intricacies of each case, allowing the viewers to feel the tension and devastation experienced by the victims’ families, the dogged determination of the investigators, and the chilling motives behind the criminals' actions. She leverages her deep understanding of crime reporting and her empathetic storytelling technique to keep the viewers engaged through every gripping and terrifying instant.

The format of Crime Beat allows viewers to learn about the investigative process, the justice system, and the effects of these nerve-racking incidences on the relatives and communities involved. While the subject matter is grim, Hixt is known for her compassionate storytelling, providing a voice for the victims and their families who have endured unimaginable loss.

The show stands out for its realistic portrayal of crime and investigative journalism. It successfully balances the line between raw journalism and captivating storytelling, engaging viewers with the human aspects of these tragic stories - the sense of loss, the desire for justice, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It dives deep into the societal and psychological aspects of crime, offering an understanding of the motives behind some of the most horrific acts, too often swept under sensational headlines or forgotten in the annals of unsolved mysteries.

Beyond simply retelling crime stories, the show allows for a greater comprehension of the societal implications of such events. It highlights the impact of these crimes on local communities and families and underscores the sense of duty that drives journalists like Hixt and law enforcement to seek out the truth relentlessly.

Moreover, Crime Beat doesn't shy away from tackling the broader, more complicated issues interwoven with crime, such as the failings of the justice system, the challenges faced by investigators, the effects of these crimes on victims' mental health, and the resilience demonstrated by communities in the aftermath of these tragic events.

On the production side, Crime Beat enjoys a high-quality approach. The series is visually striking and well-paced, with the right balance of suspense, information, and emotion. The production design, including recreations of incidents, editing, sound mixing, and cinematography, all reflect a careful and thoughtful approach that respects the real-world impact and seriousness of the stories being told.

In short, Crime Beat is a thought-provoking and nerve-wracking journey into the somber world of crime and justice. It draws you into the complex realities behind the sensational headlines, compelling you to keep watching every difficult yet enthralling moment. The show doesn't merely aim to enthrall viewers with compelling crime stories; it sheds light on the human elements echoing behind criminal acts and engenders an increased understanding of the mental, emotional, and societal influences that contribute to crime. It's a must-watch for those who enjoy true crime series with a side of raw, unwavering reality.

Crime Beat is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (86 episodes). The series first aired on March 7, 2020.