Netflix viewers will be hooked by this ‘gripping’ true crime series designed for binge-watching

Netflix’s new fast-turnaround documentary series, Instadocs, aims to investigate some of the most topical true crime cases as they’re unfolding

etflix is home to some excellent true crime documentaries, boasting a catalogue of gripping titles including Trust Me: The False Prophet, The Tinder Swindler, Don’t F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer and Tiger King.

There’s something about a deep dive into some of the most intriguing and shocking crimes that keeps viewers hooked and coming back for more. But with the complexity of many cases, and the respect owed to survivors and victims, these documentaries understandably take time to produce – until now.

© Michael Richard Martin
Alex Murdaugh’s lawyer, Dick Harpootlian

Netflix has announced a new documentary series, Instadocs, which investigates some of the most topical true crime cases almost as they unfold in real time.

With a creative team that includes executive producers Josh Tyrangiel (Vice News Tonight, Bloomberg Businessweek, The Atlantic), Connor Schell (30 for 30, The Last Dance, O.J.: Made in America) and showrunner Steve Yaccino (Giuliani: What Happened to America’s Mayor?, Killer Lies: Chasing a True Crime Con Man), Instadocs tackles “a wide range of gripping current events, crises and cultural moments.”

What is Instadocs: Alex Murdaugh, Unconvicted about?

Kicking off the series is the case of Alex Murdaugh, the South Carolina lawyer whose double-murder conviction was overturned by the South Carolina Supreme Court on 13 May 2026.

The ruling came after allegations that former court clerk Becky Hill interfered with the jury during the trial, claims she has repeatedly denied. Alex has now been granted a new trial, which could take place within the next year.

The 30-minute documentary features interviews with South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, the creators of Trial Watchers and jurors, including Myra Crosby, whose dismissal from the jury contributed to questions surrounding Becky’s conduct.

© Michael Richard Martin
Juror Myra Crosby was dismissed from the trial jury just moments before deliberations began

What did Alex Murdaugh do?

A fourth-generation lawyer, Alex and his family became embroiled in several high-profile scandals, including a fatal boat crash involving his son, Paul, and allegations of financial fraud involving former clients and the family’s law firm.

© TNS
Alex Murdaugh’s conviction has since been overturned

In June 2021, Alex called 911 to report the deaths of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, who had both been shot. As police investigated the case, Alex became the prime suspect and was later put on trial for the murders in 2023.

The jury convicted him on two counts of murder and two counts of using a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Separately, Alex also pleaded guilty to nearly two financial crimes, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, and money laundering.

Who is Becky Hill?

Rebecca “Becky” Hill served as Colleton County Clerk of Court during Alex’s trial, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the courthouse. She was also responsible for swearing Alex in before his testimony and reading out the jury’s verdict.

© Michael Richard Martin
Lawyer Joe McCulloch represented juror Myra Crosby in the appeal

After Alex was convicted and sentenced to two consecutive life terms, his legal team appealed the verdict, alleging that Becky had interfered with the jury.

Becky resigned from her position on 25 March 2024, saying she desired more time to spend with her family. Fast forward to May 2026, Alex’s murder convictions were overturned following the court’s findings regarding alleged jury interference, allegations Becky continues to deny.

Instadocs: Alex Murdaugh, Unconvicted is available to watch on Netflix. 

CRE: https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/904724/netflix-viewers-will-be-hooked-by-instadocs/