True crime podcasts have an irresistible pull, drawing us into shadowy tales of murder, betrayal, and shocking duplicity—all while we sit snugly in our chairs, safely removed from the chaos. They offer a deep dive into the minds of criminals, unraveling the twisted motivations behind their deadly deeds.
From cold-blooded killers to con artists spinning webs of deceit, true crime podcasts have tapped into our darkest curiosities, letting us peek into a world we’d never want to enter ourselves. It’s no wonder the genre has become an obsession for millions, with one in three podcast listeners captivated by the macabre stories of crime, punishment, and everything in between.
Fast forward to 2024, and true crime podcasts are better than ever. They’ve evolved into masterpieces of storytelling, with suspenseful plots and shocking revelations that grip listeners from the very first word. These aren’t just tales of whodunits—they’re intricate puzzles that explore the dark recesses of human nature, pulling you into a world where the line between good and evil often blurs.
With the rise of high-quality audio production and investigative journalism, today’s true crime podcasts go beyond surface-level storytelling to dig deep into the forgotten, the unresolved, and the downright terrifying.
So whether you’re already a true crime junkie or just dipping your toes into the abyss, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a carefully curated list of the best true crime podcasts that will keep you glued to your seat—and maybe make you double-check the locks before bed. Prepare to be hooked, because once you start listening, you won’t be able to stop.
Best true crime podcasts of 2024 that will keep you up all night
Rotten Mango
Rotten Mango offers a unique blend of true crime and spooky content, delving deep into the darkest corners of criminal minds. This podcast doesn’t shy away from gritty details, making it perfect for those who crave comprehensive crime analysis. With a focus on lesser-known cases from across the globe, it provides fresh perspectives on criminal psychology. Despite its intense subject matter, Rotten Mango maintains a delicate balance by infusing moments of humour, ensuring listeners get a well-rounded and engaging experience.
In the Dark
In the Dark, the acclaimed investigative journalism podcast, has returned with a new season. Known for its in-depth exploration of complex cases, the show first gained recognition in 2016 with its examination of Jacob Wetterling’s 1989 abduction. The second season delved into the controversial case of Curtis Flowers, who faced six trials for the same crime in Mississippi. Now, for its third season, In the Dark has joined forces with The New Yorker and writer Heidi Blake to produce a compelling four-part series. This latest installment investigates the high-stakes stories of Dubai royal women who dared to escape from Sheikh Mohammed, offering listeners a gripping narrative of risk and rebellion within the royal family.
Casefile True Crime
Casefile True Crime stands out as an essential podcast for those who appreciate meticulous storytelling in the realm of true crime. With its captivating narration and focus on both solved and unsolved cases, this podcast offers listeners a comprehensive exploration of criminal investigations. The host’s calm delivery style contrasts with the often chilling content which creates a unique listening experience. Casefile True Crime excels in its thorough research and presentation of lesser-known cases, making it a go-to choice for true crime aficionados seeking to delve deeper into the complexities and enigmas of real-world criminal events.
Serial
Produced by the New York Times, Serial stands as a cornerstone in the true crime podcast genre. Under Sarah Koenig’s expert guidance, each season meticulously examines a single case, offering listeners an in-depth exploration of complex criminal investigations. The podcast’s debut season, which scrutinised Hae Min Lee’s murder, not only captivated audiences but also revolutionised investigative journalism in audio format. With its innovative narrative approach and exhaustive examination of unresolved cases, Serial has redefined the benchmarks for true crime podcasting. It’s an essential listen for those who crave intellectually stimulating and deeply immersive crime narratives.
Small Town Murder
Small Town Murder offers a unique blend of comedy and true crime, focusing on murders that occur in small, often overlooked communities. Hosted by two comedians, the podcast delves into the intricacies of these towns, exploring their characteristics and the shocking crimes that unfold within them. Despite the grim subject matter, the hosts inject humour into their storytelling, which helps create a distinctive listening experience. With meticulous research and a comedic twist, Small Town Murder presents a fresh take on true crime, releasing new episodes weekly on Thursdays.
The Apology Line
The Apology Line podcast unveils a captivating social experiment from 1980s New York City. A mysterious phone number appears across the city, inviting anonymous callers to confess their deepest secrets via voicemail. For a decade and a half, this unconventional project, initiated by Allan Bridge (known as Mr. Apology), amasses a trove of raw, unfiltered human experiences. Years later, Bridge’s widow, Marissa, brings these long-buried confessions to light. The podcast delves into the profound impact of being entrusted with others’ darkest secrets, exploring the weight of this responsibility and its lasting effects on those who bear it.
Sistas Who Kill: A True Crime Podcast
Offering a unique perspective on true crime, Sistas Who Kill: A True Crime Podcast focuses on female African American perpetrators. Hosted by longtime friends MaRah and Taz, the show examines how the criminal justice system treats these women differently compared to their white counterparts. The podcast’s popularity has grown significantly, allowing the hosts to pursue it as a full-time endeavor. This series is particularly appealing to true crime enthusiasts who also have an interest in social justice issues, as it combines both elements in its storytelling approach.
Up and Vanished
Up and Vanished, hosted by Payne Lindsey, is a must-listen for those fascinated by unsolved mysteries and cold cases. This podcast takes a deep dive into forgotten criminal investigations, aiming to uncover new leads and bring closure to long-standing enigmas. Lindsey’s compassionate approach creates an inviting atmosphere for listeners, encouraging them to become part of the investigative journey. The show particularly appeals to true crime fans who are driven by a desire to illuminate overlooked cases and give a voice to those who can no longer speak for themselves.
Down the Hill: The Delphi Murders
Down the Hill: The Delphi Murders explores the chilling case of two teenage girls, Liberty German and Abigail Williams, who were tragically murdered near a hiking trail in Delphi, Indiana on 14 February 2017. The podcast’s title comes from a haunting three-word audio clip released by police, believed to be the voice of the unidentified male suspect. This series meticulously examines the perplexing case that continues to grip Indiana, offering listeners an immersive experience as it unravels the complexities surrounding these unsolved murders.
Dark Asia with Megan
Hosted by Megan Lee, Dark Asia with Megan is a podcast that delves into crimes committed in Asia and against Asian individuals. It is known for its unflinching approach to gruesome details, as evidenced by episodes featuring shocking stories like a man’s self-crucifixion, a disturbing case involving a high school student’s severed hands, and a body being discovered in a wine barrel. What sets this podcast apart is Lee’s clever and captivating narration style, which adds a unique and engaging dimension to these dark tales.
(Hero and feature images credit: Unsplash/ @jonathanvez)