Understanding how many episodes of The Staircase exist has become a common question for viewers who discover the series through streaming platforms or hear renewed discussion about the case. The title now refers to two separate productions: the original documentary series released over several years and the scripted dramatization released more recently. Each version offers a different experience, and each carries its own episode count, which often leads to confusion for new audiences. This detailed guide breaks down both versions, clarifies the total episodes, and provides the most up-to-date information available as of today.
Why U.S. Viewers Keep Asking This Question
The Staircase remains one of the most talked-about true-crime stories in recent memory. Its combination of courtroom drama, personal conflict, and behind-the-scenes insight into a high-profile case gives it long-standing relevance. As more viewers search for information, many discover that the title appears twice on major streaming platforms. One is the original documentary series. The other is a dramatized miniseries created years later.
Because both works share the same title, many people assume they are part of the same continuity or that one directly replaces the other. In reality, the two productions function independently. They also differ significantly in total episodes, which makes it essential to separate them clearly to understand the complete viewing experience.
The Documentary Series: A Long-Running Chronicle of a Real Case
The first version of The Staircase is a documentary series filmed across many years. It follows the real criminal case involving novelist Michael Peterson and the death of his wife, Kathleen Peterson. The creators captured courtroom moments, attorney strategy sessions, interviews, and evolving details as the case progressed.
The initial release included eight episodes, and for years, that was considered the complete series. However, new developments prompted additional filming. More footage, new interviews, and updated commentary were added as the legal process continued. This created an extended form of the documentary, eventually reaching 13 total episodes.
The structure of the documentary sets it apart from many true-crime titles. Instead of presenting a closed narrative, it documents the unfolding events over an extended timeline. The mix of legal footage, personal reflection, and in-depth reporting gives viewers access to details that are rarely seen in high-profile cases. Because of its longevity and depth, the documentary has become a significant piece of true-crime storytelling.
The 2022 Dramatized Miniseries: A Scripted Retelling With a Defined Episode Count
The Staircase title was used again when a scripted miniseries premiered in 2022. This version is not an extension of the documentary but a dramatized portrayal of the real case. It features a cast of well-known actors and recreates major events through scripted scenes rather than documentary footage.
The miniseries launched with a clear plan: eight total episodes. This episode count has never changed. The creators structured the story as a limited series, so there were no additional installments added after release. The eight-episode format provides a streamlined, cohesive narrative for viewers who prefer dramatized storytelling over documentary coverage.
This version also explores not just the case itself but the behind-the-scenes process of making the original documentary. By offering a unique creative perspective, the miniseries brought renewed attention to the story and introduced new audiences to the documentary series.
Comparing Both Versions by Episode Count
Viewers often search for a simple answer, especially if they want to know which version to watch first or how much time to commit. The most direct comparison is shown below:
- Documentary series: 13 episodes
- Dramatized 2022 miniseries: 8 episodes
These numbers remain the most current and accurate totals as of today. Because both productions are complete, there are no additional episodes expected for either version.
Why Confusion Still Happens
Despite both productions being fully released, confusion remains common. Much of this stems from the identical title. A viewer may begin with the documentary and assume the miniseries is a continuation or supplemental project. Others watch the miniseries first and believe that the documentary is an alternate edit of the same content.
In addition, the documentary’s unique release pattern contributes to uncertainty. Over many years, the series grew from its original structure to its full 13-episode count. Viewers who watched an earlier version sometimes remember a smaller number of episodes and become unsure which totals are correct today.
The miniseries’ consistent eight-episode structure simplifies things for those who start there, but the overlap in titles continues to prompt questions about the correct number of episodes for each version.
How Many Episodes of The Staircase Should You Watch First?
For viewers deciding where to begin, the documentary provides the raw, real-time experience of the case. It delivers detailed insight into the legal strategies, emotional dynamics, and long-term developments. Many true-crime fans consider it essential viewing.
The miniseries, meanwhile, offers a polished, dramatic presentation that condenses years of events into eight episodes. It appeals to audiences who prefer scripted performances and narrative structure.
The choice depends on viewing style, but understanding episode counts helps avoid confusion:
- If you want the factual progression of the case, plan for 13 documentary episodes.
- If you prefer a scripted retelling, prepare for 8 miniseries episodes.
Both cover the same core story but through very different creative approaches.
The Impact of Both Versions on Today’s True-Crime Community
The Staircase continues to spark discussions across social media platforms, podcasts, and true-crime forums. The documentary’s long-term coverage makes it a reference point for conversations about legal process transparency and the role of filmmakers in documenting real-life events. Viewers often revisit specific episodes to analyze trial strategies or reflect on the unfolding events.
The dramatized miniseries adds another layer of conversation. It reaches audiences who may not normally watch documentaries but are drawn to storytelling through actors and cinematic production. This broader reach gives the original documentary renewed attention, leading many viewers to watch both versions for a complete understanding.
As the true-crime genre continues to grow, The Staircase remains an example of how a single case can be explored through multiple formats, each offering new insights and interpretations.
Episode Structure and Viewing Flow
Understanding what to expect from each version helps viewers prepare for the pacing:
Documentary Structure
- Episodes vary in tone due to the long filming period.
- Early episodes focus on the investigation and initial trial.
- Later episodes revisit the case as new developments arise.
- The overall structure feels more like a living record of real events.
Miniseries Structure
- The eight episodes follow a cohesive narrative timeline.
- Performances and scripted dialogue create a dramatic arc.
- Flashbacks and multiple perspectives add emotional depth.
- The miniseries ends with a clear conclusion, reflecting a traditional storytelling format.
Both offer compelling viewing, but the experience differs significantly.
Why Episode Count Matters for Streaming Audiences
Today’s viewers often plan their time around series length. Whether someone is selecting a weekend binge or scheduling evenings after work, knowing the total episode count helps set expectations.
The documentary’s 13-episode structure appeals to viewers who enjoy immersive, long-form content. The miniseries’ eight-episode layout works well for those who want a shorter but still complete story.
Streaming platforms often display both titles side by side, further increasing the need for clarity on how many episodes each one includes. Because both versions continue to gain viewers, the question remains relevant for new audiences every year.
Final Thoughts
The Staircase remains a prominent part of the true-crime landscape, and its two distinct versions offer valuable perspectives on a complex story. With the documentary totaling 13 episodes and the dramatized miniseries totaling 8 episodes, the full picture becomes much clearer once these numbers are understood. Whether you choose the real-time documentary, the dramatized retelling, or both, you now have an accurate understanding of how many episodes to expect.
Share your thoughts in the comments: Which version did you watch first, and how did it shape your view of the story?