The true crime genre continues to captivate audiences with its unsettling but fascinating stories, and Oxygen’s newest documentary series American Unknown Serial Killers promises to deliver a fresh and intense perspective on this genre. Premiering on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 7 PM Eastern Time, the six-part series introduces viewers to some of the most chilling yet lesser-known serial killers in American history. Unlike infamous criminals such as Ted Bundy or Jeffrey Dahmer, these killers have largely escaped public attention, allowing their crimes to remain shrouded in mystery until now. The series is crafted to take audiences on a deep dive into the investigations, the victims’ stories, and the haunting realities behind these crimes.
American Unknown Serial Killers distinguishes itself by focusing not on the sensationalized killers everyone knows but on those whose stories have been overlooked or forgotten. Each episode lasts about an hour and presents an in-depth examination of the killers’ backgrounds, methods, and the reasons why they were able to avoid detection for so long. By featuring firsthand accounts from law enforcement officials who worked tirelessly on these cases and the families who endured profound loss, the series humanizes the victims and paints a comprehensive picture of these complex investigations. This documentary goes beyond the surface, encouraging viewers to reflect on the challenges of bringing such criminals to justice and the enduring impact on communities affected by their actions.
Where and How to Watch the Series for Free
For many viewers, accessing new shows can be a challenge without cable subscriptions. Fortunately, Oxygen and its partners have made American Unknown Serial Killers accessible to a wide audience through various streaming services. If you do not have traditional cable television, you can still watch the series live or on demand using streaming platforms such as FuboTV and DirecTV Stream, both of which offer free trials to new users. These trials provide an excellent opportunity to watch the premiere episode and explore the series without any immediate cost.
FuboTV provides several subscription options after the trial period, ranging from the Essential package at $74.99 to the Elite package priced at $89.99. This variety allows users to pick a plan that fits their viewing preferences and budget. DirecTV Stream offers a similar arrangement with its Entertainment, Select, and Ultimate packages, priced from $87.99 to $129.99. What makes DirecTV Stream particularly attractive is its lack of contract commitment and the $30 discount available to new subscribers once the free trial ends. These flexible offerings mean that viewers can enjoy live TV, including Oxygen’s lineup, without being tied down to long-term deals.
Another convenient option for watching American Unknown Serial Killers is Peacock TV, which hosts the show alongside other popular programming. Peacock’s subscription plans start at $7.99 per month, with annual payment options that allow subscribers to cancel at any time. The platform boasts over 80,000 hours of content, including current NBC and Bravo shows, sports broadcasts, and original productions. Sling TV also participates by offering new users half-price deals on subscriptions plus a free month of AMC+ service, making it an affordable way to access the show and additional content. Sling’s Blue and Orange packages start at $20 for the first month, offering different device streaming limits and channel options.
The Stories Behind the Killers
One of the most compelling aspects of American Unknown Serial Killers is the opportunity to learn about killers who have avoided the spotlight. The documentary highlights figures such as Daniel Conahan, a convicted killer linked to multiple “Pig Trail Murders” in Florida. His case is chilling not only because of the brutality but because of how he slipped past law enforcement for years. Another featured killer is Terry Rasmussen, known as the “Chameleon Killer” for his ability to change identities and evade capture. His story raises questions about the complexities of tracking criminals who operate under multiple aliases.
William Suff, labeled the “Riverside Prostitute Killer,” is also profiled in the series. His crimes, involving the torture and murder of more than ten sex workers, expose the vulnerabilities of marginalized communities and the failures in protecting them. Lastly, Carl Watts, the “Sunday Morning Killer,” is presented as possibly one of the most prolific serial killers in American history. Watts’ story forces viewers to consider how some killers operate unnoticed despite leaving extensive trails of victims. Each episode explores these men’s backgrounds and criminal acts in detail, offering viewers a sobering look at the reality behind sensational headlines.
Why This Series is Important for True Crime Fans
True crime stories often focus on high-profile cases, but American Unknown Serial Killers shifts the focus to those killers who slipped beneath the public radar. This approach deepens the genre by telling stories that challenge viewers to think critically about justice, law enforcement, and victim advocacy. The series demonstrates the painstaking work behind investigations and shows the emotional toll on victims’ families, whose voices are often absent from popular narratives.
By combining rigorous research, expert testimony, and compelling storytelling, the documentary provides more than entertainment; it offers insight into how serial killers can remain hidden and the systemic issues that sometimes enable them. This makes the series a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the broader dynamics of crime and justice beyond the headlines.
Conclusion
American Unknown Serial Killers is more than just a true crime series. It is a revealing exploration of some of America’s darkest and most overlooked criminal cases. With its compelling narrative, strong eyewitness accounts, and careful examination of law enforcement challenges, the series stands out as an important contribution to the true crime documentary field. Its accessibility through multiple streaming services and free trial options means that viewers can easily engage with these stories and deepen their understanding of the complexities involved in uncovering the truth.
For anyone drawn to true crime or interested in criminal psychology, this series offers a rare glimpse into cases that have long remained in the shadows. As the genre continues to evolve, American Unknown Serial Killers promises to be a significant and memorable addition to the landscape of crime documentaries in 2025.
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