Interest in true crime stories is at an all-time high, despite declining crime rates in America. This fascination spans various media, including streaming services, podcasts, TV shows, and films. The genre’s popularity can be traced back to Truman Capote’s 1966 book “In Cold Blood,” which detailed a real-life murder case. Jean Murley, a professor who studies true crime, explains that these stories captivate audiences because they involve real, dramatic, and often unsolved crimes, such as the infamous 1892 Lizzie Borden case. This case remains unsolved, adding to its intrigue. True crime explores intense human emotions and high stakes, which is why it resonates with many, including the hosts of the “My Favorite Murder” podcast, who began their show out of a shared interest in discussing these gripping tales.
QUESTION: Why do you think people are so drawn to stories about real-life crimes, and how might this interest impact society’s perception of crime and justice?
True crime, where there’s nothing hotter than a cold case
