Hulu is known for offering some of the best true crime series among streaming platforms, and these nine shows stand out as the cream of the crop. From gripping dramatizations of high-profile cases to in-depth explorations of systemic issues, Hulu’s true crime offerings showcase the genre at its most compelling and thought-provoking. Series like The Act and Dopesick bring to life the human stories behind the headlines, with powerhouse performances and meticulous attention to detail that set them apart from the pack.

Hulu’s best original series are full of compelling offerings, like the anthology series American Crime Story that tackles some of the most notorious crimes in recent history, offering fresh perspectives and incisive commentary on the cultural and political forces that shaped these cases. Whether die-hard true crime fans are looking for something to binge or a curious viewer is simply in the mood for a well told, compelling story, Hulu has some of the genre’s top-tier offerings. These nine series are intriguing and complex, sharing the stories of real human experiences.

9

The Girl From Plainville (2022)

Starring Elle Fanning and Chloë Sevigny

The Girl From Plainville takes on the heartbreaking true story of Conrad Roy’s suicide and the controversial “texting-suicide” case that followed. In the case, his girlfriend, Michelle Carter, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for her role in his death. Elle Fanning delivers a powerhouse performance as Carter, capturing the complexities and contradictions of a young woman whose actions sparked a national debate about the nature of culpability in the digital age. The series tackles the ethical and legal quandaries surrounding the case head-on, offering a nuanced exploration of the events leading up to Roy’s tragic death and its aftermath.

The Girl From Plainville stands out as a prime example of how to execute the genre’s conventions with skill and sensitivity. The show’s attention to detail and its commitment to exploring the psychological depths of its characters elevate it above more sensationalistic treatments of similar material. A thoughtfully crafted script further enhances the series’ impact, ensuring that it never loses sight of the human tragedy at its core. While The Girl From Plainville made some changes to the true story, it is still a compelling and emotionally resonant entry that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

8

Candy (2022)

Starring Jessica Biel and Melanie Lynskey

In the quiet suburb of Wylie, Texas, a shocking murder rocked the community when Betty Gore was found brutally slain in her own home, struck 41 times with an ax. As the investigation unfolded, suspicion fell upon Candy Montgomery, a seemingly perfect housewife whose extramarital affair with Gore’s husband, Allan, had recently come to light. The series explores the complex themes of repressed trauma and the controversial role of hypnosis in criminal investigations, adding an intriguing element to a story that could have easily been reduced to sensationalism.

Candy offers a thought-provoking examination of the events leading up to Gore’s brutal death and the legal battle that followed, raising important questions about the efficacy of the justice system and the nature of self-defense. Montgomery’s trial, in which she claimed self-defense, left many unanswered questions about the justice system’s ability to handle such complex cases. The series takes its time to delve into the inner lives of both Montgomery and Gore, exploring the factors that may have contributed to the tragic events that unfolded. Candy is a well-crafted series that offers a fresh perspective on a well-known case.

7

Welcome To Chippendales (2022-2023)

Starring Kumail Nanjiani and Murray Bartlett

Welcome to Chippendales chronicles the rise and fall of Somen “Steve” Banerjee, an Indian immigrant whose pursuit of the American Dream led him to create the iconic male revue that took the world by storm. Kumail Nanjiani delivers a captivating performance as Banerjee, capturing the entrepreneur’s ambition, ingenuity, and ultimately, his descent into darkness. The series offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural zeitgeist of the 1980s, exploring themes of masculinity, sexual liberation, and the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry.

What sets Welcome to Chippendales apart from other true crime dramas is its ability to delve into the complex psychology of its central characters, particularly Banerjee himself. The series takes a nuanced approach to exploring the motivations behind Banerjee’s actions, painting a portrait of a man driven by a relentless pursuit of success and a deep-seated fear of failure. This psychological depth, combined with the show’s meticulous attention to period detail and strong supporting performances, elevates Welcome to Chippendales into an insightful series that offers a fresh perspective on a fascinating chapter in American cultural history.

6

Under The Bridge (2024)

Starring Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone

In a crowded field of true crime dramas, Under The Bridge distinguishes itself through its empathetic and multi-faceted approach to the tragic murder of Reena Virk. By exploring the case from various perspectives, including that of the victim herself, the series offers a compassionate examination of a harrowing event. Lily Gladstone delivers a compelling performance as the investigating police officer, bringing depth and humanity to a role that could have easily been reduced to a procedural archetype. The show’s direct adaptation of Rebecca Godfrey’s book further elevates Under The Bridge above other true crime dramas.

Under The Bridge‘s well-crafted script and strong performances contribute to its overall impact, creating a viewing experience that is both emotionally resonant and thought-provoking. While it may not quite reach the same heights as the very best true crime offerings on Hulu, Under The Bridge is a significant step above the more formulaic and exploitative entries. Its nuanced approach to a complex and sensitive subject matter, combined with its impressive production values and talented cast, make it a must-watch.

5

Under The Banner Of Heaven (2022)

Starring Andrew Garfield and Sam Worthington

A gripping exploration of the dark side of religious fervor, Under The Banner Of Heaven brings Jon Krakauer’s seminal true crime book to life with a powerful performance by Andrew Garfield at its center. The series skillfully interweaves the investigation of a brutal murder committed by fundamentalist Mormons Ron and Dan Lafferty with a historical narrative about the founding of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Under The Banner Of Heaven‘s unflinching examination of the ways in which organized religion can be manipulated and abused adds to its cultural and sociological significance.

With its strong performances, meticulous attention to historical detail, and thought-provoking themes, Under The Banner Of Heaven stands out as one of Hulu’s most compelling true crime offerings. The series is a significant achievement in its own right, offering a complex and engrossing exploration of the dark undercurrents that can lurk beneath the surface of religious devotion. Its ability to shed light on a little-known chapter in American history while simultaneously telling a gripping true crime story makes it an essential watch.

4

The Dropout (2022)

Starring Amanda Seyfried and Naveen Andrews

The Dropout is a captivating retelling of the rise and fall of Elizabeth Holmes and her biotech company Theranos, showcasing the power of deception and the allure of the impossible. Amanda Seyfried portrays Holmes, capturing the enigmatic entrepreneur’s charisma, ambition, and ultimately, her hubris. The series navigates the complex web of lies and manipulation that allowed Holmes to fool some of the most powerful figures in medicine, pharmaceuticals, and government, shedding light on the systemic failures that enabled her fraud to flourish.

The Dropout‘s exploration of Holmes’ motivations and the enabling role played by those around her adds a layer of complexity to the narrative that is often lacking in more sensationalistic true crime dramas. Additionally, the show’s deft incorporation of journalist John Carreyrou’s investigation into Theranos’ fraud highlights the crucial role of the press in holding the powerful accountable. These elements, combined with the series’ high production values and exceptional performances, make The Dropout a standout entry in Hulu’s true crime lineup.

3

The Act (2019)

Starring Patricia Arquette and Joey King

The Act offers a chilling and in-depth look at the disturbing true story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother Dee Dee, expertly portrayed by Joey King and Patricia Arquette, respectively. Arquette’s Golden Globe-winning performance captures the unsettling complexities of a mother whose apparent love and care for her daughter conceal a dark reality of abuse and deception. King’s transformation into Gypsy Rose is equally impressive, conveying the desperation and trauma of a young woman trapped in a twisted web of lies and manipulation.

The Act distinguishes itself through its unflinching portrayal of the insidious nature of abuse and the devastating consequences of factitious disorder. The series retells the intricate relationship between Gypsy Rose and Dee Dee, evoking a sense of empathy for both the victim and the perpetrator. This emotional depth, coupled with the show’s ability to maintain a palpable sense of unease throughout its eight-episode arc, demonstrates the exceptional quality of its writing and acting.

2

American Crime Story (2016-)

Starring Sarah Paulson and Sterling K. Brown

With its engaging storytelling, exceptional performances, and uncompromising exploration of some of the most notorious crimes in recent American history, American Crime Story is one of the best true crime shows of all time. The show’s first season, which focuses on the O.J. Simpson murder trial, is a tour de force, meticulously reconstructing the events surrounding the case while simultaneously examining the complex social, racial, and political issues that shaped its outcome. The ensemble cast, led by Sterling K. Brown, Sarah Paulson, and Courtney B. Vance delivers powerhouse performances that capture the incisive commentary on the American justice system.

Subsequent seasons of American Crime Story continue to showcase the series’ commitment to exploring the human stories behind the headlines. Season 2’s examination of the murder of Gianni Versace and season 3’s deep dive into the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal demonstrate the show’s versatility and its ability to find fresh angles on well-known cases. American Crime Story‘s ability to combine gripping storytelling, cultural relevance, and award-worthy performances places it near the very top of Hulu’s true crime offerings.

1

Dopesick (2021)

Starring Michael Keaton and Kaitlyn Dever

At the pinnacle of Hulu’s true crime offerings, Dopesick stands as a powerful exploration of the devastating human cost of the opioid epidemic. Anchored by Michael Keaton’s Emmy-winning performance as a compassionate doctor caught in the web of OxyContin’s deceptive marketing, and Kaitlyn Dever’s heartbreaking portrayal of a young woman struggling with addiction, the series offers an unflinching look at the systemic failures and corporate greed that fueled one of the worst public health crises in American history. Dopesick‘s ability to weave together multiple narratives creates a comprehensive and emotionally resonant picture of the epidemic’s far-reaching impact.

While other series may focus on a single case or individual, Dopesick’s scope is vast, encompassing the experiences of countless victims, families, and communities torn apart by the opioid crisis. This broader perspective elevates Dopesick to a level of cultural significance that few true crime dramas have achieved. With its exceptional performances, powerful storytelling, and urgent social commentary, Dopesick is not only the best true crime series on Hulu, but also a vital work of art that demands to be seen and understood by anyone seeking to grasp the full scope of the opioid epidemic.