The Staircase
The Staircase: Season 1

Air Date

October 7, 2004

Episodes

13 episodes

The Staircase

Season 1

Episodes

Crime or Accident?

1. Crime or Accident?

7.3
October 7, 2004
49 min

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

2. Secrets and Lies

6.5
October 7, 2004
49 min

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

3. A Striking Coincidence

7.1
October 14, 2004
49 min

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

4. A Prosecution Trickery

7.3
October 14, 2004
49 min

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

A Weak Case

5. A Weak Case

7.3
October 21, 2004
49 min

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

The Prosecution's Revenge

6. The Prosecution's Revenge

7.3
October 21, 2004
49 min

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

7. The Blow Poke Returns

7.7
October 28, 2004
49 min

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

The Verdict

8. The Verdict

8.7
October 28, 2004
49 min

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

Reopening the Case

9. Reopening the Case

7.7
January 30, 2013
49 min

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

10. The Last Chance

7.5
January 30, 2013
49 min

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

11. Looking for Closure

7.6
June 8, 2018
49 min

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

12. Between Anger and Despair

7.6
June 8, 2018
49 min

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

13. Flawed Justice

8.1
June 8, 2018
49 min

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