The Staircase
The Staircase
TV Series
7.6
2004 1 Seasons

The Staircase

WATCH

Storyline

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.

Episodes

Season 1

Season 1

13 Episodes Aired 2004

No overview available for this season.

Crime or Accident?
47 min
E1

Crime or Accident?

Oct 07, 2004

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
45 min
E2

Secrets and Lies

Oct 07, 2004

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
46 min
E3

A Striking Coincidence

Oct 14, 2004

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
44 min
E4

A Prosecution Trickery

Oct 14, 2004

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

A Weak Case
47 min
E5

A Weak Case

Oct 21, 2004

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

The Prosecution's Revenge
47 min
E6

The Prosecution's Revenge

Oct 21, 2004

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
50 min
E7

The Blow Poke Returns

Oct 28, 2004

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

The Verdict
49 min
E8

The Verdict

Oct 28, 2004

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

Reopening the Case
55 min
E9

Reopening the Case

Jan 30, 2013

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
52 min
E10

The Last Chance

Jan 30, 2013

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

Looking for Closure
52 min
E11

Looking for Closure

Jun 08, 2018

Following two and a half years of house arrest, Michael must decide whether to push for a plea or risk his freedom with a new trial.

Between Anger and Despair
46 min
E12

Between Anger and Despair

Jun 08, 2018

Their faith in the justice system forever shaken, Michael and his family discuss what they can hope to achieve by continuing the fight.

Flawed Justice
46 min
E13

Flawed Justice

Jun 08, 2018

Michael speaks to a reporter about the reasons behind his plea. Later, Kathleen's sister delivers a statement of defiance in court.

Series Info

Status

Ended

Seasons

1

Episodes

13

Language

en

Networks

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