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True crime stories have gained popularity globally and will become some of the most listened-to genres in 2024. According to recent statistics, 41% of American podcast listeners between the ages of 18 and 29 regularly tune in to true crime podcasts. In contrast, 15% of listeners are 65 years of age or older. With the increase in demand for the podcasts, below are the top 10 best true crime podcasts that you should listen to this year.
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Best True Crime Podcasts in 2024: In a Nutshell
For us at Framedrop, the best True Crime podcasts of 2024 are:
- Serial: A groundbreaking podcast that re-investigates complex criminal cases, starting with Adnan Syed's conviction.
- My Favorite Murder: A humorous take on true crime stories with hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark sharing murder tales and listener submissions.
- Criminal: Host Phoebe Judge explores a wide range of fascinating crime stories, each episode focusing on a different case.
- Casefile: An anonymous host narrates meticulously researched true crime stories, from well-known cases to lesser-known mysteries.
- Dateline NBC: Compelling true-crime mysteries and in-depth investigations from the popular NBC television series, now in podcast format.
- Someone Knows Something: David Ridgen delves into unsolved cold cases, interviewing those connected to uncover new leads.
- Sword and Scale: Mike Boudet explores the darkest aspects of human nature with detailed and often graphic true crime stories.
- Unsolved Murders: True Crime Stories: A dramatized podcast with an ensemble cast that re-enacts cold cases with vivid storytelling.
- Wrongful Conviction: Jason Flom interviews exonerees and legal experts to shed light on wrongful convictions and justice system flaws.
- Dirty John: The story of conman John Meehan and his manipulation of women, hosted by LA Times reporter Christopher Goffard.
Understanding True Crime Podcasts
Documentary podcasts have been on the rise in contemporary society, especially in the last decade, and true crime podcasts are among the most popular. These podcasts contain elements of both storytelling and journalism, which makes them particularly appealing to audiences interested in the depths of human evil and the inner workings of criminals. They have become popular with the help of fan appeal due to their capacity for suspense, research, and even live incidents. For many, podcasting has transitioned from a hobby to a revenue-generating activity, prompting curiosity about how much podcasters make.
Our Top Picks: 10 Best True Crime Podcasts
Just like on our “Best History Podcasts” list, this one features not only some of the most popular True Crime podcasts but also our very favorite ones. There was no Best True Crime Podcasts 2023 list, this is our first one and we hope you like our picks! Ok, here we go:
Serial
Hosts: Sarah Koenig
Platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts
"Serial" revolutionized the podcast world with its in-depth exploration of true crime stories. The first season delves into the case of Adnan Syed, convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Hae Min Lee. With its meticulous investigation and compelling storytelling, "Serial" set the bar for true crime podcasts. Each season covers a different story, offering listeners a deep dive into complex criminal cases.
My Favorite Murder
Hosts: Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
Platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher
"My Favorite Murder" combines humor with true crime, as hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark share their favorite murder stories and hometown crime tales from fans. The show balances dark stories with comedic relief, creating a unique and engaging listening experience. It has a massive following and a vibrant community of "Murderinos".
Criminal
Host: Phoebe Judge
Platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify
"Criminal" offers a fresh look at the true crime genre with each episode focusing on a different crime story, ranging from historical cases to contemporary incidents. Host Phoebe Judge's calm and steady narration brings a sense of gravitas to the podcast, making it a favorite among true crime enthusiasts. The show is known for its thorough research and compelling storytelling.
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Casefile
Host: Anonymous
Platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts
"Casefile" is an Australian true crime podcast that covers a wide range of cases from around the world. Known for its eerie background music and detailed storytelling, "Casefile" delves into both well-known and obscure cases, often presenting multi-part episodes for more complex stories. The anonymous host's deep voice adds to the podcast's haunting atmosphere.
Dateline NBC
Hosts: Various NBC correspondents
Platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts
"Dateline NBC" brings the popular television show's investigative reporting to the podcast format. It features a mix of current and classic episodes, covering a range of true crime mysteries, documentaries, and in-depth investigations. The podcast's storytelling prowess and journalistic integrity make it a standout in the true crime genre.
Someone Knows Something
Host: David Ridgen
Platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts
"Someone Knows Something" focuses on cold cases, with each season dedicated to a different unsolved crime. Host David Ridgen, a filmmaker and journalist, conducts thorough investigations, interviewing family members, witnesses, and suspects. The podcast's slow-paced, detailed approach aims to bring closure to families and uncover new leads in long-forgotten cases.
Sword and Scale
Host: Mike Boudet
Platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher
"Sword and Scale" explores the darkest corners of human behavior, presenting cases of murder, rape, dismemberment, and cannibalism. Host Mike Boudet doesn't shy away from graphic details, making this podcast not for the faint of heart. The show uses real audio clips from 911 calls, police interrogations, and courtroom proceedings to add depth to its storytelling.
Unsolved Murders: True Crime Stories
Hosts: Carter Roy and Wendy Mackenzie
Platforms: Spotify
"Unsolved Murders: True Crime Stories" blends narrative storytelling with dramatizations of cold cases. The podcast is reminiscent of old-time radio dramas, with an ensemble cast that brings vivid reenactments of crime scenes, investigations, and plot twists. This format makes it both an entertaining and immersive listening experience.
Wrongful Conviction
Host: Jason Flom
Platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts
"Wrongful Conviction" focuses on stories of individuals who have been wrongfully convicted of crimes they did not commit. Hosted by Jason Flom, the podcast features first-hand interviews with exonerees and the lawyers who worked to free them. It sheds light on the flaws within the criminal justice system and advocates for reform.
Dirty John
Host: Christopher Goffard
Platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher
"Dirty John" tells the story of John Meehan, a conman who manipulated and terrorized multiple women. Hosted by LA Times reporter Christopher Goffard, the podcast explores Meehan's relationship with Debra Newell, revealing the dark truths behind his charming facade. The series' in-depth examination of psychological manipulation and abusive relationships has made it a standout in the genre.
One Episode at a Time
Popular non-fiction podcasts, especially those focused on true crime, offer listeners a captivating glimpse into the darker aspects of the world, blending gripping storytelling with investigative journalism. These are the best true crime podcasts that we’ve been listening to this year and all are highly entertaining, deeply informative while having something for every true crime enthusiast. Beyond entertainment, these podcasts educate the public about the intricacies of criminal justice and human behavior. If you are looking to create your own true crime podcast or already have one give Framedrop.ai a try and grow your audience massively with the help of AI.
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FAQ
The "number one" true crime podcast can vary depending on current trends, listener preferences, and ratings. However, some of the most consistently popular and critically acclaimed true crime podcasts include:
- "Serial": Often credited with popularizing the true crime podcast genre, "Serial" investigates a different story each season, with the first season focusing on the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee.
- "My Favorite Murder": A comedic take on true crime, this podcast has a large following and features hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark discussing various cases.
- "Criminal": Hosted by Phoebe Judge, "Criminal" explores a wide range of crime stories, from historical cases to more obscure incidents.
Many excellent true crime podcasts are available for free on various platforms. Some of the best free true crime podcasts include:
- "Casefile": An anonymous Australian narrator delves into cases from around the world, providing detailed and well-researched episodes.
- "Sword and Scale": Known for its in-depth storytelling and use of real audio clips, this podcast covers a wide range of true crime stories.
- "Criminal": As mentioned above, this podcast is free and covers diverse crime stories with engaging narratives.
- "The Vanished": This podcast focuses on missing persons cases, offering insights and updates on lesser-known stories.
True crime podcasts are created by a diverse group of individuals, including journalists, writers, enthusiasts, and even professional investigators. Some notable true crime podcast hosts and creators include:
- Sarah Koenig: The journalist behind "Serial," she brings investigative rigor and compelling storytelling to the podcast.
- Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark: Comedians and hosts of "My Favorite Murder," they blend humor with true crime stories.
- Phoebe Judge: Host of "Criminal," she is known for her soothing voice and engaging narrative style.
- Mike Boudet: Creator and host of "Sword and Scale," he delves deep into various true crime cases, often using real audio clips and interviews.
- David Ridgen: Host of "Someone Knows Something," Ridgen is a seasoned documentarian who investigates cold cases with a personal touch.
These creators, along with many others, contribute to the rich and varied landscape of true crime podcasts, each bringing their unique perspectives and styles to the genre.