Inside the Strange True Story of ‘The Staircase’
The Staircase is a gripping true crime tale centered on Kathleen Peterson’s mysterious death. The story gained widespread attention with the 2022 HBO Max series starring Colin Firth and Toni Collette, now streaming on Netflix.
Kathleen Peterson was found dead at the bottom of a staircase in her Durham, North Carolina home. Authorities suspected her husband, Michael Peterson, a novelist and military veteran, as the prime suspect in the case.
The story first appeared in a French docuseries under BBC’s Storyville and later became a 10-episode Netflix series. This expanded interest in the complicated legal battle surrounding Michael Peterson.
Kathleen, born in Greensboro and an engineering pioneer at Duke University, was a telecommunications executive and active arts patron. She married Michael in 1997 after divorcing her first husband, with whom she had a daughter.
Michael Peterson served in Vietnam and later pursued a career as a writer. He was also involved in local politics, running for mayor in Durham. After divorcing his first wife, he became guardian to two children before marrying Kathleen.
On the night of Kathleen’s death, the couple celebrated Michael’s book deal. Kathleen went to bed around 2 a.m., and Michael found her unconscious shortly after. The autopsy revealed she died from multiple blows to the back of the head, contradicting the initial assumption of an accidental fall.
Michael Peterson was charged with murder days after Kathleen’s death. At his 2003 trial, he insisted on his innocence but was convicted and sentenced to life without parole. His conviction was overturned eight years later due to investigative misconduct.
In 2017, Michael entered an Alford plea to voluntary manslaughter, acknowledging enough evidence for conviction without admitting guilt. He was released with credit for time served.
The series also explores Michael’s relationship with Sophie Brunet, the editor of the original French docuseries. Despite their personal involvement, Brunet maintained professional integrity during editing, according to her statements.
The Staircase portrays a complex story filled with ambiguity and legal intrigue. It remains a compelling example of how truth in criminal cases can be elusive and continually questioned.
Read more at: people.com
