Watch City Confidential

City Confidential is a true crime television series that aired on A&E from 1998 to 2006, and was later picked up for syndication by Court TV from 2006 to 2007. Each episode of the show focuses on a different American city, and examines a notable crime that took place in that city. The show was hosted by actor Paul Winfield until his death in 2004, and was later narrated by actor Keith David.

The premise of City Confidential is to explore crimes that have often gone underreported or forgotten. The show delves into the history and culture of each city, making it clear how the events of each crime not only affected the victims and perpetrators, but also the entire community. The show's creators capitalize on the dramatization of true events, mixed with stunning visuals of the city, creating a captivating and immersive viewing experience.

The show covers a wide range of crimes, from grand theft to murder, and everything in between. A team of expert journalists, including lawyers, detectives, and historians, provide insightful commentary and analysis of the cases during each episode. Interviews with eye-witnesses, family members, and law enforcement officials provide additional details and context, fleshing out the stories of the crimes.

The show's host or narrator, depending on the season, often provides a critical perspective on the crimes, offering up a sobering view of the hardships that sometimes come with living in certain parts of the United States. Paul Winfield, hosting the earlier episodes, portrays a calm, fatherly figure, providing a sense of gravitas to the show's content. Keith David, on the other hand, brings a more authoritative tone to his narration, commanding respect with his deep, rumbling voice.

Each episode typically follows a chronological order, walking viewers through the events leading up to the crime, the investigation, and the trial. The dramatic storytelling and expertly-crafted visuals keep the audience engaged throughout each episode, even if the viewer is already familiar with the story being told. The show's creators use every tool available to bring the story to life, from newspaper clippings and archival footage to reenactments and dramatic recreations.

Throughout the series, the show covers notable crimes from across the United States. Some of the most memorable episodes include "The Murder of Dr. Richard Boggs," which details a medical malpractice case in Louisville, Kentucky; "Death of a Dream," which explores a failed development project in Gulfport, Mississippi; and "The Killing in Kennebunkport," which examines the murder of a local police chief in Kennebunkport, Maine. However, the show does not restrict itself to any specific genre of crime, instead providing information and drama on a wide variety of cases.

Overall, City Confidential is a classic true crime series that captivates audiences with its storytelling and dramatic visuals. The show's use of narrators and expert commentary fully immerses viewers in the story, and the show's creators use every tool in their arsenal to present a complete picture of each crime, including showcasing its impact on the community as a whole. The series has left behind a legacy that will undoubtedly influence true crime programming for years to come.

City Confidential is a series that ran for 14 seasons (184 episodes) between November 22, 1999 and on A&E