Do you really know? Why are we so fascinated by true crime?
Oct 9, 2025
The surge of true crime popularity in the 21st century has reshaped media consumption. From impactful documentaries to addictive podcasts, millions are drawn to real-life crime stories. The roots of this fascination trace back to 19th-century sensationalism, revealing our enduring curiosity about the macabre. The standard narrative captivates by combining crime with archetypal characters and dramatic flares. However, the podcast also highlights potential harms, such as desensitization and the glamorization of criminals.
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Historical Roots Of True Crime
- True crime's modern surge links back to 19th-century sensational reporting and penny dreadfuls.
- Truman Capote's In Cold Blood and investigative journalism moved true crime into mainstream media.
The Genre's Familiar Narrative Structure
- True crime often follows the In Cold Blood structure: start with the crime and use distinctive characters.
- The format creates drama and invites audiences to piece together motives and evidence.
Why Audiences Are Drawn In
- The genre taps a mix of fear and curiosity that drives audience engagement.
- People enjoy solving mysteries and playing armchair detective from the safety of home.
