
It starts subtly—a news headline, a podcast recommendation, or an overheard conversation about the latest jaw-dropping true crime documentary. Before you know it, true crime has a firm grip on your attention. But why does this genre have such a unique hold on audiences worldwide?
For one, true crime doesn’t just tell stories—it takes viewers into the minds of criminals, victims, and the intricacies of the justice system. It blends raw human emotion with the allure of solving puzzles, giving it a unique dual appeal of intellect and empathy.
But another layer often goes unnoticed: true crime mirrors societal fears, anxieties, and aspirations. In a time when information spreads faster than ever, true crime offers entertainment and an outlet to understand and process the complexities of the modern world.
And yet, there’s always more beneath the surface. True crime has evolved from its tabloid roots into a global phenomenon, but what makes it a staple for streaming platforms, and how does it continue to reinvent itself for new audiences?
Let’s take a closer look.
Hooked on True Crime
The crime drama has evolved significantly since its origins in the crime columns of 18th-century newspapers, and by 2023, it had become the most-watched subgenre globally.
The appeal of the crime genre extends beyond entertainment. True crime, particularly, taps into our curiosity about human behavior and our fascination with mystery. Research by Netflix conducted in collaboration with psychology professionals highlights that many people watch true crime to understand criminal behavior better and gain practical safety insights. True crime stories also create a strong emotional connection with audiences. They often highlight victims’ perspectives, offering the satisfaction of seeing justice served. For some, they provide a sense of relief and a safe way to process fears about violence.
This genre’s success lies in combining facts with suspense, allowing viewers to process complex issues such as justice, morality, and fear in a safe environment. In a way, it mirrors the patterns of the horror genre. (Is it fair to call crime horror’s humble brother—without the overly-exaggerated suspense and ghostly stuff?)
The rise of long-form true crime docuseries, such as Making a Murderer and The Staircase, has been instrumental in shaping the modern landscape of the genre. These shows use cliffhangers, red herrings, and multi-layered narratives to pull viewers into deeply immersive experiences. Interestingly, back in 2013, several streamers and broadcasters turned down Making a Murderer. Netflix picked it up when true crime wasn’t even a focus for the company. Fast forward to today, Netflix and other platforms all have their true crime original gems up their sleeves—and plenty more in the pipeline.
Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon have refined the genre by presenting true crime as "appointment television," where viewers commit to detailed, evolving stories. Making a Murderer, for example, reportedly secured 19 million U.S. viewers in its first month, showcasing the massive global appetite for well-crafted and well-packaged crime stories. Platforms have popularized and perfected this format through data-driven insights, tailoring content to specific audience preferences. Smart content discovery and recommendation systems ensure True Crime programs are strategically promoted, driving engagement and retention.
The genre’s cultural relevance is amplified by its adaptability. It spans a broad spectrum, from investigative journalism-based formats like HBO’s The Jinx to dramatized series like Australia’s Underbelly, which reimagines real-life events into high-stakes dramas. This variety caters to diverse audience tastes and consumption habits, making true crime a global phenomenon.
True crime’s success isn’t just about its stories but also its format. Binge-watching has redefined how audiences consume these programs. Long-form narratives, often spanning multiple episodes or seasons, keep viewers hooked with serialized storytelling and open-ended questions. And let’s not forget the annoying yet undeniably effective hook of weekly episode releases. Either way, the ability to watch these stories on demand has made streaming platforms the ideal home for the genre.
True crime’s cultural relevance is another key factor in its popularity. What started as newspaper factual reporting has now adapted to modern streaming habits, dominating digital platforms. Streaming services make these stories accessible to global audiences, sparking online and offline communities where fans share their thoughts, theories, and excitement. These discussions further fuel the genre’s growth, building connections among viewers.
Interestingly, statistics prove that women continue to dominate the true crime audience. Many are drawn to the genre for its practical safety insights, and its focus on female victims often mirrors their real-world concerns. True crime also offers an outlet for processing emotions like fear and anger, challenging traditional gender roles and expectations.
How do we draw in more men to watch crime? Four words: cartels, mafia, triads, and yakuza.
VILN Channel: True Crime from East to West
With the enduring popularity of true crime, we’re excited to introduce VILN, our new FAST channel. Distributed globally via Amagi Connect, VILN is available for acquisition worldwide. The channel is dedicated entirely to true crime and features a blend of global classics, contemporary hits, and exclusive original productions.
VILN delivers a fresh approach to crime storytelling that appeals to both men and women. Its diverse content line-up includes Undercover Asia, which sheds light on the struggles of marginalized communities, and Twilight of the Yakuza, an intimate look at Japan’s diminishing crime syndicates. The channel’s carefully curated schedule offers something for everyone, with themed blocks and engaging programming designed to keep viewers hooked.
Targeting culturally aware and tech-savvy viewers aged 25-54, VILN blends American and Asian crime stories, reflecting the genre’s universal appeal and ability to connect audiences across cultures.
If true crime is your audience’s go-to genre, VILN is the channel they want to watch next.
What Else to Expect from VILN?

Undercover Asia 2014-2020
In this gripping series, we dive deep into the shadows of society, exposing the injustices, secrets, and untold stories that are too often brushed under the rug.
From the bustling cities to the remote villages, our intrepid host takes you on an eye-opening journey through real-world issues like human trafficking, environmental crises, and the struggles of the forgotten. Undercover Asia pulls back the curtain on the darkest corners of the continent with hidden cameras, undercover tactics, and raw, unfiltered reporting.
Get ready to witness the truth like never before—this is not just storytelling but action-packed, reality-bending journalism at its finest. Hold on tight—Undercover Asia will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew!

The Dark/Web, 2019
This is the Dark/Web, where the line between reality and nightmare blurs in the internet’s darkest corners. In this chilling anthology series, we dive deep into the hidden, encrypted underworld of the dark web, where danger lurks behind every click, and anonymity breeds chaos.
Each episode is a pulse-pounding journey into the unknown, as unsuspecting individuals stumble upon terrifying secrets, cryptic messages, and sinister figures lurking in the shadows. From cybercrime to unthinkable conspiracies, Dark/Web pulls you into a world where trust is a commodity, and one wrong move could change everything. Get ready for a heart-racing ride through the virtual abyss—where the scariest monsters are the ones you can’t see, and the only certainty is that nothing is what it seems.

Code of Law 2012–2020
Welcome to Code of Law, where justice is not just a concept—it’s a high-stakes battle unfolding in real-time. Step into the heart of Singapore’s legal system, where crime meets courtroom in an electrifying drama that blurs the line between law and chaos. Each episode brings you face-to-face with gripping investigations, intense legal showdowns, and characters whose lives hang in the balance.
From the detectives hunting down criminals in the shadows to the sharp legal minds sparring in the courtroom, every case is a race against time. With twists, turns, and edge-of-your-seat moments, the Code of Law challenges the very nature of truth and the cost of justice. Get ready for a thrill ride where every decision could be a game-changer, and every choice carries consequences.
About allrites
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