The Staircase Season 1

The Staircase Season 1

07 October 2004

Episodes

Crime or Accident?

1. Crime or Accident?

Following his wife's suspicious death, Michael Peterson speaks about his version of the events while lawyers and expert witnesses prepare for trial.

07 October 2004

Secrets and Lies

2. Secrets and Lies

As Michael's hidden life comes out into the open, defense experts debate if it will have a significant impact on the coming trial.

07 October 2004

A Striking Coincidence

3. A Striking Coincidence

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.

14 October 2004

A Prosecution Trickery

4. A Prosecution Trickery

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

14 October 2004

A Weak Case

5. A Weak Case

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

21 October 2004

The Prosecution's Revenge

6. The Prosecution's Revenge

A witness brings surprising levity to the stand. The judge rules on an important matter, and Michael's alleged temper comes under scrutiny.

21 October 2004

The Blow Poke Returns

7. The Blow Poke Returns

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

28 October 2004

The Verdict

8. The Verdict

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

28 October 2004

Reopening the Case

9. Reopening the Case

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.

30 January 2013

The Last Chance

10. The Last Chance

After more experts testify about the questionable conclusions and claims of Duane Deaver, the judge rules on whether a new trial is necessary.

30 January 2013

Looking for Closure

11. Looking for Closure

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.

08 June 2018

Between Anger and Despair

12. Between Anger and Despair

Their faith in the justice system forever shaken, Michael and his family discuss what they can hope to achieve by continuing the fight.

08 June 2018

Flawed Justice

13. Flawed Justice

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

08 June 2018

Cast