S01 Episode 1

Crime or Accident?

Michael Peterson talks about his wife Kathleen's death while he stands accused of her murder and attorneys prepare for trial.

47 mins · Sun, 16 Jan 2005

S01 Episode 2

Secrets and Lies

Michael Peterson's hidden sex life is revealed and defence experts debate whether it will have a significant impact on the coming trial.

46 mins · Mon, 17 Jan 2005

S01 Episode 3

A Striking Coincidence

The defence team is surprised when a suspicious event from the past comes to light. Michael's first wife in Germany receives a visit.

46 mins · Tue, 18 Jan 2005

S01 Episode 4

Prosecution Trickery

Elizabeth Ratliff's body is exhumed for autopsy as media attention increases and a report in the press threatens Peterson's defence.

44 mins · Tue, 18 Jan 2005

S01 Episode 5

A Weak Case?

The prosecution presents its case and Peterson's frantic 911 call is played in court. The defence tries to cast doubt within the minds of the jury.

47 mins · Wed, 19 Jan 2005

S01 Episode 6

The Prosecution's Revenge

A reluctant witness comes forward while information about a previous death is used in the trial. Peterson's alleged temper is examined.

47 mins · Thu, 20 Jan 2005

S01 Episode 7

The Blowpoke Returns

As Peterson's defence brings in experts, a new discovery comes to their attention. Jurors visit the staircase at the Peterson home.

50 mins · Sun, 23 Jan 2005

S01 Episode 8

The Verdict

After more than three months at trial, the jury deliver the verdict regarding the murder of Kathleen Peterson.

50 mins · Sun, 23 Jan 2005

S01 Episode 9

Reopening the Case

Eight years after the trial, the chance that a key witness for the prosecution may have misled the jury could prove the need for a new trial.

55 mins · Mon, 4 Mar 2013

S01 Episode 10

The Last Chance

After experts testify about the questionable conclusions of Duane Deaver, the judge determines whether a new trial is necessary.

52 mins · Mon, 11 Mar 2013

S01 Episode 11

Looking for Closure

Peterson says he rejects the word guilty, but saying it in a courtroom could be the only way to close the case and ensure his freedom. His family discuss their relief at his parole as well as their fears of what lies ahead.

52 mins · Fri, 8 Jun 2018

S01 Episode 12

Between Anger and Despair

David Rudoff, Peterson's friend and attorney, will not represent him at a new trial. Proposals are introduced for Peterson to plead guilty, but he still refuses to pronounce the word.

46 mins · Fri, 8 Jun 2018

S01 Episode 13

Flawed Justice

A deal is made for an Alford plea, in which Peterson pleads guilty while still maintaining his innocence. After 15 years, the case is finally deemed closed.

46 mins · Fri, 8 Jun 2018

Season 1

The Staircase

Where to Watch

Season 1 Episodes

More Seasons of The Staircase