The Staircase: Docuseries

TV-MA

2004

Created by Jean-Xavier de Lestrade
Recommended
94%
82%
13 episodes
Documentary

Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker, Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, offers a rare and revealing insider look at the high-profile murder case of... More

Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker, Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, offers a rare and revealing insider look at the high-profile murder case of Kathleen Peterson.

In 2001, author Michael Peterson was arraigned for the murder of his wife Kathleen, whose body was discovered lying in a pool of blood on the stairway of their home. Granted unusual access to Peterson's lawyers, home and immediate family, de Lestrade's cameras capture the defense team as it considers its strategic options.

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The Staircase: Docuseries episodes

Crime or Accident?

Following his wife's suspicious death, Michael Peterson speaks about his... More version of the events while lawyers and expert witnesses prepare for trial.

Secrets and Lies

As Michael's hidden life comes out into the open, defense... More experts debate if it will have a significant impact on the coming trial.

A Striking Coincidence

The death of another woman close to Peterson from 17... More years earlier sparks a new investigation. She also died on a staircase, casting major doubts over the defense case.

A Prosecution Trickery

As the trial looms and media attention heats up, an... More autopsy report's wording ruffles the feathers of the defense team.

A Weak Case

The prosecution presents its case while the defense strives to... More cast a reasonable doubt within the minds of the jury.

The Prosecution's Revenge

A witness brings surprising levity to the stand. The judge... More rules on an important matter, and Michael's alleged temper comes under scrutiny.

The Blow Poke Returns

Kathleen's sisters pore over Michael's writings. Jurors visit the staircase... More at Michael's home. A vital piece of evidence reappears.

The Verdict

Is Michael Peterson guilty or not guilty? The jury delivers... More its verdict regarding the mysterious death of his wife, Kathleen.

Reopening the Case

Eight years later, the possibility that a key witness for... More the prosecution may have misled the jury could prompt the need for a new trial.

The Last Chance

After more experts testify about the questionable conclusions and claims... More of Duane Deaver, the judge rules on whether a new trial is necessary.

Looking for Closure

Following two and a half years of house arrest, Michael... More must decide whether to push for a plea or risk his freedom with a new trial.

Between Anger and Despair

Their faith in the justice system forever shaken, Michael and... More his family discuss what they can hope to achieve by continuing the fight.

Flawed Justice

Michael speaks to a reporter about the reasons behind his... More plea. Later, Kathleen's sister delivers a statement of defiance in court.

The Staircase: Docuseries | Ratings & Reviews

One of the great true-crime documentaries, on par with The Jinx. The level of access the filmmakers get to the intricies of the case and justice system is fully exploited, and played out alongside a riveting, head-scratching 'did he?/did he not?' mystery.