The Top True Crime Podcasts Dominating 2026

The true crime podcast landscape in 2026 is dominated by a mix of long-running favourites and breakout hits that have fundamentally changed how audiences engage with criminal investigations.

**Crime Junkie** remains the undisputed heavyweight champion, consistently ranking at number one across multiple platforms. Hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, the show has amassed over 3 billion downloads since launching in 2017. Every Monday, listeners worldwide tune in for meticulously researched episodes running 30 to 45 minutes, with a clear focus on unsolved and underreported cases that might otherwise fade into obscurity.

**Casefile True Crime** holds strong in the conversation, having earned its reputation since 2016 with an Australian base and a fiercely anonymous host. What sets Casefile apart is its willingness to tackle international cases with surgical precision—episodes range from 30 minutes to sprawling multi-part investigations lasting over four hours. With 415 episodes catalogued, the show demonstrates an unwavering commitment to thorough research that resonates across continents.

**Dateline NBC** continues its strong presence, leveraging decades of broadcast journalism expertise to maintain a top-five ranking. The show's source-based approach brings television's credibility to the podcast medium, attracting audiences familiar with the iconic NBC brand.

For listeners seeking something beyond pure , **Morbid** offers a distinctive blend of true crime with paranormal and supernatural elements. Hosted by an technician and a hairdresser, the show brings unconventional perspectives to the genre and holds a significant chart position heading into 2026.