Netflix has announced that new episodes of their Emmy Nominated documentary series Making a Murderer
are currently in production and will cover the struggles of convicted murderer Steven Avery and his co-defendant Brendan Dassey as they work with their legal team to challenge their convictions, while facing vehement resistance from the state which is determined to see both their life sentences upheld.
When the series premiered on Netflix in December of 2015, audiences were drawn in by the story of Avery, a man who spent 18 years in prison for sexual assault before being exonerated by DNA evidence, who would later be arrested and charged in 2005 for the murder of Teresa Halbach. Audiences watched as this highly documented and detailed case that unfolded in front of their eyes placed pressure upon the honesty and intentions behind the state of Wisconsin and were given a different perspective on Avery, who initially seemed to fit the profile of the crime. The series received high praise but mixed criticism, some saying that the show highlighted the perversion of justice that occurred on a day to day basis, while others claimed the series manipulated audiences and portrayed Avery as only a victim while disregarding key evidence from the trial.
Steven Avery is currently incarcerated as Waupun Correctional Institution, but he has not abandoned his fight for freedom. Making a Murderer creators/directors Laura Ricciardi and Moira Demos will be delving into the post-conviction process of the trial and the pain and emotions that those involved face. The second part of the series will feature exclusive information from Avery’s new lawyer Kathleen Zellner as well as from the legal team of Dassey. The series will also have in-depth access to family and those close to the defendants.
Riccardi and Demos have thanked audiences for their interest in the show and trail which has allowed them to continue forward with aiding Avery, they have stated “we are extremely grateful for the tremendous response to, and support of, the series. The viewers’ interest and attention has ensured that the story is not over, and we are fully committed to continuing to document events as they unfold.” The Netflix VP of Original Documentary Programming has also show support for Demos and Riccardi’s efforts by stating “We’re thrilled to be continuing our longstanding relationship with the filmmakers, and look forward to giving our global viewers eagerly anticipated updates on this story”, claiming that the show has offered a “unique lens” into the criminal justice system.
There is no word yet on when the new episodes of Making a Murderer will premiere on Netflix, but given the sensitive nature of the case and the importance of providing accurate and detailed information, audiences will need to remain patient in order to receive the clearest and most honest perspective.