Common Sense Media Review
Violence, alcohol, drugs in slow-burn true crime thriller.
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Murdaugh: Death in the Family
What's the Story?
The Murdaugh life appears idyllic at first glance; a local legacy of lawyers, lots of money, and a gorgeous home. But cracks begin to appear. Patriarch Alex Murdaugh is struggling with his law practice and using pills to cope. And when son Paul is drunkenly at the helm of a boat accident that kills a young woman, things begin getting worse for this picture-perfect family. Based on the true crime tale explored by many podcasts and specials, MURDAUGH: DEATH IN THE FAMILY stars Jason Clarke and Patricia Arquette.
Is It Any Good?
The sordid story of Alex Murdaugh and his crimes have been examined many times since 2021. But Murdaugh: Death in the Family is the first time it's been dramatized. The acting is solid, especially Clarke as a man losing his grip on a supposedly perfect life, but it also feels like we've heard enough about this family.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about true crime cases. What do you think it is about this particular story that has inspired so much discussion?
Talk about power. How did the Murdaugh legacy help Alex through his career and life? Did it help during his trial?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 15, 2025
- Cast : Jason Clarke , Patricia Arquette , Johnny Berchtold
- Network : Hulu
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , History ( Biopic )
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 15, 2025
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