10 Gripping Movies & Shows Similar to The Playboy Murders (2023)

Description: Like 'The Playboy Murders (2023)', 'Dirty John' is a true crime series that explores themes of deception, manipulation, and violence within intimate relationships. Both shows highlight the dangers of charismatic but dangerous individuals infiltrating seemingly secure environments. The storytelling in 'Dirty John' is similarly gripping and investigative, peeling back layers of a complex criminal case.

Fact: Based on the popular Los Angeles Times podcast and article series. Connie Britton and Eric Bana star as the central couple. The real John Meehan died in 2016 after being stabbed by the daughter of one of his victims.

Description: While fictional, 'The Night Of' shares with 'The Playboy Murders (2023)' a gritty exploration of crime and the justice system. Both delve into how cases are investigated and prosecuted, with particular attention to media scrutiny and public perception. The atmospheric tension and moral complexity are comparable between the two.

Fact: Originally developed by James Gandolfini, who was set to star before his death. Based on the British series 'Criminal Justice'. Riz Ahmed received an Emmy nomination for his performance.

Description: This documentary series shares with 'The Playboy Murders (2023)' a deep dive into a high-profile criminal case involving wealth, power, and alleged murder. Both explore the intersection of privilege and crime, with 'The Jinx' focusing on real estate heir Robert Durst's suspected involvement in multiple deaths. The investigative journalism approach and shocking revelations are key similarities.

Fact: The series features a famous hot mic moment where Durst appears to confess to murder. Director Andrew Jarecki previously made the fictional film 'All Good Things' about Durst's case. Durst was convicted of murder in 2021, six years after the series aired.

Description: This true crime docuseries parallels 'The Playboy Murders (2023)' in its examination of a serial predator and the lasting impact on victims. Both shows combine investigative journalism with personal narratives, focusing on cases that remained unsolved for decades. The atmospheric storytelling and focus on bringing justice to victims are strong connecting points.

Fact: Based on Michelle McNamara's bestselling book about the Golden State Killer. McNamara died unexpectedly during the book's writing. The Golden State Killer was arrested just months after the book's publication.

Description: Similar to 'The Playboy Murders (2023)', 'The Act' delves into true crime with a focus on psychological manipulation and deception. Both explore the dark underbelly of seemingly glamorous or ordinary lives, revealing shocking truths. 'The Act' is based on the real-life story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother Dee Dee, mirroring the investigative and sensational aspects of 'The Playboy Murders'.

Fact: 'The Act' is based on the 2016 BuzzFeed article 'Dee Dee Wanted Her Daughter To Be Sick, Gypsy Wanted Her Mom To Be Murdered'. Patricia Arquette won a Golden Globe for her role as Dee Dee Blanchard. The real Gypsy Rose Blanchard was released from prison in December

Description: This anthology series connects to 'The Playboy Murders (2023)' through its exploration of the intersection between sexuality, power, and danger. Both examine how relationships in high-stakes environments can turn deadly, though 'The Girlfriend Experience' does so through fictionalized accounts inspired by real escort industry dynamics.

Fact: Inspired by Steven Soderbergh's 2009 film of the same name. Each season features a completely new cast and storyline. The series has been praised for its realistic portrayal of transactional relationships.

Description: This groundbreaking true crime series shares with 'The Playboy Murders (2023)' an in-depth look at a controversial murder case that captured national attention. Both raise questions about justice, media influence, and whether the truth is being fully revealed. The investigative documentary style and ongoing legal battles are key similarities.

Fact: Filmed over 10 years by filmmakers Laura Ricciardi and Moira Demos. Subject Steven Avery has become one of America's most famous convicted murderers. The series sparked widespread debate about the U.S. justice system.

Description: This documentary series aligns with 'The Playboy Murders (2023)' in its examination of a mysterious death with possible institutional cover-ups. Both explore how power structures can obscure the truth about crimes, with 'The Keepers' focusing on the unsolved murder of a nun and potential church involvement. The investigative approach and shocking revelations are comparable.

Fact: Focuses on the 1969 murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik in Baltimore. Allegations of sexual abuse at the school where she taught form a major part of the story. The case remains officially unsolved.

Description: Like 'The Playboy Murders (2023)', this limited series deals with the investigation of serious crimes against women and the systemic issues that can hinder justice. Both shows highlight the perseverance of investigators and victims in seeking truth, with 'Unbelievable' focusing on a serial rapist case. The emotional weight and procedural details create strong parallels.

Fact: Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning article 'An Unbelievable Story of Rape'. Toni Collette and Merritt Wever play the detectives. The real-life rapist was sentenced to 327 years in prison.

Description: Like 'The Playboy Murders (2023)', this true crime series investigates a bizarre and complex criminal case that captured public fascination. Both explore the psychology of criminals and the often-strange circumstances surrounding high-profile crimes. The detailed examination of an unusual murder plot creates strong thematic parallels.

Fact: Focuses on the 2003 'pizza bomber' case in Erie, Pennsylvania. Features extensive footage of the actual crime in progress. The mastermind behind the plot died in prison before the series was released.