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Have we reached an era where the fascination with murder holds more sway than ever? This observation comes in light of the surge in murder mystery shows across various platforms, suggesting a cultural preoccupation with crime and investigation.
Death is a prominent theme in storytelling, alongside sex and drugs. It’s intriguing to note that nearly all narratives can trace their roots back to one of these three catalysts, and the pervasiveness of murder mysteries in contemporary media signifies its relevance.
Major networks and streaming services alike, such as CBS and others, have embraced this trend, ensuring there is a murder mystery for nearly every viewer’s taste. For those who follow this genre, the current array of offerings is thrilling.
Murder as a storytelling device is hardly a new phenomenon. Historical playwrights like Shakespeare often centered their works around murder and deceit, culminating in an enduring interest in the theme.
Today’s murder mysteries, however, go beyond simple “whodunnits.” They are becoming more innovative, with fresh narrative techniques that elevate the suspense and deepen viewer engagement, whether through episodic formats or ongoing story arcs.
Murder Has Always Had a Home on Broadcast Television
The allure of murder mysteries thrives on broadcast television, where the incorporation of crime is often easier to digest than graphic themes of sex or drugs. Death and its mysteries resonate widely with audiences.
Historically, many consider “Telecrime,” a British series from 1938 featuring interactive mysteries for the audience to solve, as one of the earliest examples of murder-themed television. However, today’s viewers possess sharper insights, prompting writers to adapt and innovate beyond traditional formulas.
Take, for example, CBS’s series “Elsbeth,” which subverts the classic murder mystery framework. It showcases the murderer’s actions upfront, shifting the focus to how detectives piece together the investigation. This approach offers a fresh twist to viewers accustomed to the suspense of discovering “whodunit.”
Meanwhile, other programs continue to weave intricate plots within the familiar “whodunnit” structure. A recent addition is an ABC series featuring Kaitlin Olson, where her character—grounded in everyday life—team-ups with police to solve complex murders.
Streaming Is Catching Up with The Biggest Murder Mystery Show of the Last Decade
Streaming platforms have also been prolific in this genre. Peacock’s “Poker Face,” starring Natasha Lyonne, exemplifies this trend with a blend of comedy and mystery as the protagonist travels across the U.S., solving various murders using her unique skill of detecting lies. It captures audiences with humor while delving into intricate narratives.
Furthermore, Netflix has released “The Residence,” a compelling “whodunnit” that revolves around the death of a high-profile individual at the White House, which echoes the appeal of successful murder mystery films like “Knives Out.”
Moreover, Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building”—featuring a star-studded cast, including Selena Gomez—has captured significant attention, confirming that the demand and interest in murder mysteries remain high across streaming services.
The Industry Is Saturated in Murder Mystery Shows, But Some Aren’t Hits
The rising popularity of murder mysteries is evident, yet it begs the question: have we become desensitized to violence, making death our primary point of intrigue? Humanity’s relentless curiosity regarding death and its mysteries resonates in popular culture, akin to our intrigue regarding the unexplored depths of the ocean.
Although not traditionally a fan, the influx of inventive murder mysteries has piqued interest in the genre for many viewers, as fresh takes on established themes continue to emerge. However, the market saturation means that not every show achieves success. For instance, NBC’s “Grosse Pointe Garden Society”—a murder mystery reminiscent of “Desperate Housewives”—failed to capture significant attention from viewers.
Viewers today are more discerning, meaning that despite the plethora of available content, some shows inevitably fall short of expectations. This has created a competitive landscape where only the most engaging narratives thrive.
With platforms like Paramount+ reviving classics such as “Dexter” with “Dexter: Original Sin,” fans of murder mysteries have a wealth of content to explore. Each new release invites discussion and encourages viewers to curate their “Watch Lists” filled with diverse offerings in the genre.
The volume of murder mysteries, both old and new, continues to grow, reigniting interest in theatrical slashers and dramas alike. The fascination surrounding these stories keeps audiences engaged and eager for more.
What’s your go-to murder mystery show? Did you stumble upon a new favorite while reading? Your insights are welcome in the comments.
Source
www.tvfanatic.com