A study of 2,000 adults found 49% will switch on crime documentaries or real-life stories in the hours ahead of bedtime. For 15% of those, such programmes are even an effective way to help them fall asleep.
Meanwhile, 44% of viewers said watching helps them forget their worries, though 20% admitted to experiencing nightmares after engaging with true crime. For 37%, the appeal lies in how engaging the programmes are, while 27% appreciate the opportunity to learn.
The research, commissioned by the TRUE CRIME, a channel dedicated to expert-led true crime programming, found nearly one in five (19%) binge the genre at least four nights a week. Although 61% admitted they sometimes stay up later than intended to watch or listen to multiple episodes.
A spokesperson for the broadcaster said: « The contrast between the weight of the topics and the comfort people get from shows and podcasts of this kind is an interesting one.
“It’s fascinating to see how audiences are tuning into true crime content not just for entertainment, but as part of their daily routines – even to help them unwind before bed.
« The combination of expert-led insights and these challenging subjects highlights how audiences engage thoughtfully with this genre.”
The research also found the most popular formats for true crime fans to absorb the genre through are television documentaries (68%), dramas based on real crimes (60%), and podcasts (28%). Some have owned up to marathoning at least five hours back-to-back (15%).
While 16% said they had been so invested that they ended up late or missed events– including a meal (31%), a sports game (29%) or a work deadline (18%).
The OnePoll.com survey also revealed fans’ behaviour can change directly because of the genre, as 27% now double-check locks, 16% are less trusting of others, and 12% have installed security infrastructure as a result of what they’ve seen.
Regionally, people from London are the biggest fans of the genre, with 85% indulging, compared to just 69% from the South East of England. And generationally, it’s Gen Zs who consume the most (84%), whereas just 67% of boomers engage with true crime.
The spokesperson for TRUE CRIME which airs Murder: Point Of Contact from 17th September said: “This genre has become more than just entertainment – for many, it’s part of their nightly routine.
“It’s fascinating to see how deeply true crime influences behaviour, from sleep habits to home security. Whether it’s documentaries or podcasts, the appetite for expert-led coverage of real-life crime shows no signs of slowing down.”
