The Staircase · S1 · E7
The Blow Poke Returns
Kathleen's sisters pore over Michael's writings. Jurors visit the staircase at Michael's home. A vital piece of evidence reappears.
About this episode
Kathleen's sisters pore over Michael's writings. Jurors visit the staircase at Michael's home. A vital piece of evidence reappears.
Season 1

1Crime or Accident?
47 minOct 7, 2004★ 6.8
Following his wife's suspicious death, Michael Peterson speaks about his version of the events while lawyers and expert witnesses prepare for trial.

2Secrets and Lies
45 minOct 7, 2004★ 6.1
As Michael's hidden life comes out into the open, defense experts debate if it will have a significant impact on the coming trial.

3A Striking Coincidence
46 minOct 14, 2004★ 7.1
The death of another woman close to Peterson from 17 years earlier sparks a new investigation. She also died on a staircase, casting major doubts over the defense case.

4A Prosecution Trickery
44 minOct 14, 2004★ 7.4
As the trial looms and media attention heats up, an autopsy report's wording ruffles the feathers of the defense team.

5A Weak Case
47 minOct 21, 2004★ 7.4
The prosecution presents its case while the defense strives to cast a reasonable doubt within the minds of the jury.

6The Prosecution's Revenge
47 minOct 21, 2004★ 7.4
A witness brings surprising levity to the stand. The judge rules on an important matter, and Michael's alleged temper comes under scrutiny.

7The Blow Poke Returns
50 minOct 28, 2004★ 7.7Now viewing
Kathleen's sisters pore over Michael's writings. Jurors visit the staircase at Michael's home. A vital piece of evidence reappears.

8The Verdict
49 minOct 28, 2004★ 8.6
Is Michael Peterson guilty or not guilty? The jury delivers its verdict regarding the mysterious death of his wife, Kathleen.

9Reopening the Case
55 minJan 30, 2013★ 7.6
Eight years later, the possibility that a key witness for the prosecution may have misled the jury could prompt the need for a new trial.

10The Last Chance
52 minJan 30, 2013★ 7.6
After more experts testify about the questionable conclusions and claims of Duane Deaver, the judge rules on whether a new trial is necessary.

11Looking for Closure
52 minJun 8, 2018★ 7.6
Following two and a half years of house arrest, Michael must decide whether to push for a plea or risk his freedom with a new trial.

12Between Anger and Despair
46 minJun 8, 2018★ 7.5
Their faith in the justice system forever shaken, Michael and his family discuss what they can hope to achieve by continuing the fight.

13Flawed Justice
46 minJun 8, 2018★ 8.1
Michael speaks to a reporter about the reasons behind his plea. Later, Kathleen's sister delivers a statement of defiance in court.
