The Staircase

2004 – 2018
Ended
Documentary · Crime
~49m / ep
1 season
7.6/10

Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker, Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, presents a gripping courtroom thriller, offering a rare and revealing inside look at a high-profile murder trial. 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. The series is an engrossing look at contemporary American justice that features more twists than a legal bestseller.

All seasons

Latest: Season 1 · 2004

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E1. Crime or Accident?
Oct 7, 2004 · 47m
Following his wife's suspicious death, Michael Peterson speaks about his version of the events while lawyers and expert witnesses prepare for trial.
E2. Secrets and Lies
Oct 7, 2004 · 45m
As Michael's hidden life comes out into the open, defense experts debate if it will have a significant impact on the coming trial.
E3. A Striking Coincidence
Oct 14, 2004 · 46m
The death of another woman close to Peterson from 17 years earlier sparks a new investigation. She also died on a staircase, casting major doubts over the defense case.
E4. A Prosecution Trickery
Oct 14, 2004 · 44m
As the trial looms and media attention heats up, an autopsy report's wording ruffles the feathers of the defense team.
E5. A Weak Case
Oct 21, 2004 · 47m
The prosecution presents its case while the defense strives to cast a reasonable doubt within the minds of the jury.
E6. The Prosecution's Revenge
Oct 21, 2004 · 47m
A witness brings surprising levity to the stand. The judge rules on an important matter, and Michael's alleged temper comes under scrutiny.