The Staircase

The Staircase

2004 - 2018Documentary, CrimeTV-MA1 Season13 Episodes

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.

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Seasons

Season 1

Season 1

13 Episodes • 2004

Episodes - Season 1

Crime or Accident?

1. Crime or Accident?

47m

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

Secrets and Lies

2. Secrets and Lies

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.

A Striking Coincidence

3. A Striking Coincidence

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.

A Prosecution Trickery

4. A Prosecution Trickery

44m

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

A Weak Case

5. A Weak Case

47m

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

The Prosecution's Revenge

6. The Prosecution's Revenge

47m

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

The Blow Poke Returns

7. The Blow Poke Returns

50m

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

The Verdict

8. The Verdict

49m

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

Reopening the Case

9. Reopening the Case

55m

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

The Last Chance

10. The Last Chance

52m

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

Created by: Jean-Xavier de Lestrade

Top Cast

Michael Peterson

Self

Ron Guerette

Self

Tom Maher

Self

David Rudolf

Self

Bill Peterson

Self

Available on: SundanceTV, Canal+, Netflix

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