'Under the Bridge' Finale: From 'A Friend of the Family' to 'The Act', 5 true crime shows to watch once Hulu series ends
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: True crime dramas continue to reign supreme in the entertainment world, captivating audiences with their blend of real-life drama, suspense, and exploration of the human condition.
Whether delving into the psychological intrigue of criminal minds, the relentless pursuit of justice, or the unraveling of hidden conspiracies, true crime shows offer a captivating experience to viewers.
Hulu's 'Under the Bridge' stands out as one such show that epitomizes the gripping allure of true crime. This series dives deep into the tragic real story of a teen girl, Reena Virk, whose life was cut short due to bullying.
Starring Riley Keough, Lily Gladstone, Izzy G, Chloe Guidry, Michael Buie, Ezra Farouke, and Archie Panjabi in pivotal roles, 'Under the Bridge' is based on the book of the same name by Rebecca Godfrey.
If you liked 'Under the Bridge,' then you'll love this lineup of shows ready for your next binge.
'Under the Banner of Heaven' (2022) - Hulu
'Under the Banner of Heaven,' an American true crime drama television miniseries created by Dustin Lance Black, recounts the harrowing true story surrounding the deaths of Brenda Lafferty and her baby daughter Erica in a suburb in Salt Lake Valley, Utah, in 1984.
Based on the nonfiction book by Jon Krakauer, the series delves into the dark and disturbing aspects of religious fundamentalism, unraveling the chilling events that led to the brutal murders.
The miniseries tells the story through the perspective of Andrew Garfield’s character, Detective Jeb Pyre, who is a devout Mormon.
As he delves into the events within the Lafferty family, he unearths hidden truths about the origins of the LDS religion and the violent repercussions of unwavering faith.
Brenda and her infant child were murdered by her brothers-in-law, Ron and Dan Lafferty after Ron claimed he had received a divine command from God to carry out a ritual killing.
If you loved 'Under the Bridge', you will like 'Under the Banner of Heaven.' Both series delve deep into the dark and complex world of true crime, offering gripping narratives that uncover the chilling truths behind real-life events.
'Under the Banner of Heaven' is available to stream on Hulu.
'A Friend of the Family' (2022) - Peacock
'A Friend of the Family' is another American true crime drama television miniseries based on real-life events. It focuses on the true story of Robert Berchtold, who in the 1970s sexually abused and twice kidnapped Jan Broberg, a young girl from Idaho, a northwestern U.S. state.
The series delves into the disturbing relationship between Berchtold and the Broberg family, exploring how Berchtold manipulated and groomed Jan and her family, ultimately leading to her abduction.
Through its detailed storytelling and emotional depth, 'A Friend of the Family' sheds light on the devastating impact of sexual abuse and abduction on victims and their families.
'A Friend of the Family' stars Jake Lacy as Robert Berchtold, Colin Hanks as Bob Broberg, Mckenna Grace as Jan Broberg, and Hendrix Yancey as young Jan Broberg.
'A Friend of the Family' is available to stream on Peacock.
'The Act' (2019) - Hulu
'The Act' is an American true crime drama television series that offers a chilling portrayal of the complex and tragic relationship between Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother, Dee Dee Blanchard.
Patricia Arquette and Joey King star as Dee Dee Blanchard and Gypsy Rose Blanchard in 'The Act'.
Based on a shocking true story, the series delves into the dark world of Munchausen syndrome by proxy, a rare form of abuse in which a caregiver exaggerates, fabricates, or induces illness in a person under their care to gain sympathy or attention.
Gypsy grew up believing she was sick with cancer, a deception carefully orchestrated by her mother. However, as Gypsy matures, she starts to unravel the truth: she is not sick at all.
Feeling trapped and desperate to break free from her mother's control, Gypsy confides in her boyfriend and asks him to help her.
Together, they devise a plan to kill Dee Dee, convinced it is the only means for Gypsy to liberate herself from her mother's abuse and manipulation.
'The Act' is available to stream on Hulu.
'The Staircase' (2022) - Max
'The Staircase' is an American true crime drama television miniseries created by Antonio Campos. It is based on the 2004 true crime docuseries of the same name, which was created by Jean-Xavier de Lestrade.
Michael Peterson, a crime novelist, finds himself at the center of a murder investigation following the discovery of his wife, Kathleen, dead at the bottom of a staircase in their home.
Authorities quickly become suspicious, leading to Peterson being accused of her murder. The case unfolds with a blend of shocking revelations, legal battles, and intense media scrutiny, as both the prosecution and defense delve into the circumstances surrounding Kathleen's death.
Kathleen's autopsy report revealed that she had suffered severe head and neck trauma, consistent with an intentional and violent beating by a blunt object.
The detailed findings of the autopsy indicated multiple lacerations and contusions, suggesting a brutal attack rather than an accidental fall.
'The Staircase' stars Colin Firth as Michael Peterson, Toni Collette as Kathleen Peterson, and Sophie Turner as Margaret Ratliff.
'The Staircase' is currently available to stream on Max.
'The Girl from Plainville' (2022) - Hulu
'The Girl from Plainville' recounts the true story of Michelle Carter and the infamous 'texting-suicide' case that captured national attention.
The series delves into the complex and tragic relationship between Michelle and Conrad Roy III, exploring the intense and often troubling interactions that unfolded primarily through text messages. Tragically, Conrad's life ended in suicide.
He tragically ended his life by inhaling carbon monoxide from a portable generator that he had placed inside the cab of his truck.
Although Conrad had a history of depression and had been prescribed antidepressants, the investigation took a dramatic turn when police discovered a series of texts—eventually totaling more than 1,000—exchanged with Michelle in the week leading up to his death.
Michelle, who identified herself as Conrad's girlfriend, appeared to be encouraging him to carry out his suicide.
The series examines the pivotal role Michelle's texts played in Conrad's decision to end his life, ultimately leading to her being charged and convicted of involuntary manslaughter.
The series stars Elle Fanning, Ella Rubin, Colton Ryan, and Chloe Sevigny in pivotal roles.
'The Girl from Plainville' is currently available to stream on Hulu.
You can watch these true crime drama series once 'Under the Bridge' ends.
'Under the Bridge' trailer