The Staircase
Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker, Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, presents a gripping courtroom thriller, offering a rare and revealing inside look at a high-profile murder trial. In 2001, author Michael Peterson was arraigned for the murder of his wife Kathleen, whose body was discovered lying in a pool of blood on the stairway of their home. Granted unusual access to Peterson's lawyers, home and immediate family, de Lestrade's cameras capture the defense team as it considers its strategic options. The series is an engrossing look at contemporary American justice that features more twists than a legal bestseller.
First Aired
2004-10-07
Status
Ended
Network
SundanceTV
Seasons
Season 1 Episodes
Watch All →
E1. 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.
★ 6.8
E2. 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.
★ 6.1
E3. 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.
★ 7.1
E4. A Prosecution Trickery
As the trial looms and media attention heats up, an autopsy report's wording ruffles the feathers of the defense team.
★ 7.4
E5. A Weak Case
The prosecution presents its case while the defense strives to cast a reasonable doubt within the minds of the jury.
★ 7.4
E6. 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.
★ 7.4
Cast
Michael Peterson
Self
Ron Guerette
Self
Tom Maher
Self
David Rudolf
Self
Bill Peterson
Self
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