Parents' Guide to The Lesson Is Murder

TV Hulu Reality TV 2023
The Lesson Is Murder: Graphic of the outline of a man's head with the top removed and an outline of the show's investigative team standing next to eac

Common Sense Media Review

Stephanie Morgan By Stephanie Morgan , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 15+

Unique, distressing true crime show delves into criminology.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 15+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

THE LESSON IS MURDER is a true crime series narrated and hosted by Dr. Bryanna Fox, a psychological criminologist and former FBI special agent. Dr. Fox studies violent offenders to develop psychological profiles that help law enforcement catch dangerous criminals. Each episode covers Dr. Fox re-investigating a different criminal case while training a team of her top graduate students in her work as a professor at the University of South Florida.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

This show offers a unique and interesting take on the true crime genre by delving into the psychology of murderers rather than just solving the crime. The Lesson Is Murder viewers are taken on a journey alongside graduate students working toward their degrees in psychological criminology, led by a thoughtful and intelligent host, Dr. Fox. While some of the interactions may feel performative, the show provides comprehensive coverage of not just the crimes, but also the backgrounds and childhoods of the murderers, as well as interviews with victims' loved ones and convicted murderers. This show is sure to appeal to true crime fans looking for something new and thought-provoking.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about what makes Dr. Fox stand out as a particularly intelligent and thoughtful investigator and leader. How does she display a passion for teamwork? Does she add to the overall experience of watching the show?

  • In what ways is The Lesson Is Murder different from other true crime shows you've watched? Do you think the focus on understanding why the crimes were committed, rather than who committed them, adds to your understanding of crime and justice?

  • How do you feel about the interactions between Dr. Fox and her students? Do they come across as genuine or is there a sense of performance for the camera?

TV Details

  • Premiere date : March 23, 2023
  • Cast : Bryanna Fox
  • Network : Hulu
  • Genre : Reality TV
  • TV rating : TV-MA
  • Last updated : December 10, 2025

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The Lesson Is Murder: Graphic of the outline of a man's head with the top removed and an outline of the show's investigative team standing next to eac

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