Not every jaw-dropping story comes from Hollywood. Some of the most shocking, inspiring, and mind-blowing tales are real, and Netflix knows how to bring them to life. Who is the smooth-talking scammer living the high life on stolen cash? How does a man clear his name using the most unlikely evidence? And what scandal was so dirty it rocked an entire system? These are not movie scripts- they are 100% real events recorded in the best Netflix documentaries that will leave you hooked and craving more!

Whether you are a mystery buff, a lover of secret worlds, or just someone who enjoys getting lost in unbelievable real-life stories, this list has something for you. Counting down to the very best, each story is packed with shocking twists, unforgettable scenes, and stories that are too good to be true—except they are!

Country queen, music legend, and an all-around icon, Dolly Parton: A MusiCares Tribute is a star-studded tribute to one of the greatest artists of all time. Featuring performances from Miley Cyrus, Kacey Musgraves, and more, this concert documentary is filled with heartfelt tributes and performances. 

From her soulful vocals to her inspiring philanthropy, this show shows why she is adored by millions. Whether you are a longtime fan or new to her magic, this homage will have you singing along. 

"I never want to reveal"- Netflix's Richard Gadd on His Secret Award Stash and The One Person Who Has Access To It

The Tinder Swindler explains the timeline of Simon’s scandal, exploring how he posed as a billionaire, wooed women with private jets and five-star hotels, then vanished, leaving them up to their necks in debt. How did he pull it off? And how did his victims turn the tables? This documentary is packed with suspense, betrayal, and a thrilling hunt for justice. If you think online dating is risky, wait until you see this story. It is so wild, it reads like a Hollywood thriller—but it is 100% real!

History buffs and mystery lovers, this one is for you!  What if there was an army buried in the ground for more than 2,000 years, only to be discovered by accident? Mysteries of the Terracotta Warriors takes you inside one of history’s greatest archaeological finds: the life-sized army standing guard over China’s first emperor. Each warrior has special details, hinting at secrets still buried in the ground. This documentary unravels how these ancient soldiers were crafted and why they were hidden for centuries. 

A brutal crime, a daughter’s dark secret, and a case that left the world stunned. What Jennifer Did unpacks the true case of Jennifer Pan, whose parents were brutally attacked in their own home. But when investigators dig deeper,  the real truth is more twisted than anyone could have imagined. Was she a victim or a mastermind? This documentary unravels the mystery with real footage and chilling details that will keep you hooked until the last second!

How does a serial killer justify his crimes? Memories of a Murderer: The Nilsen Tapes gives you access to Dennis Nilsen’s chilling personal recordings, where he recounts his gruesome murders in disturbing detail. His very matter-of-fact tone makes it all the more unsettling. Why did he do it? What drove him to such evil acts? This documentary pieces together the shocking truth behind his crimes, forcing you to face the darkest corners of the human psyche! 

If you are a true crime buff then this is your top pick! How do you prove your innocence when the odds are stacked against you? Long Shot tells the story of Juan Catalan, a man wrongly accused of a crime, until a random TV show saved his life. His alibi? Footage from the show, Curb Your Enthusiasm. This gripping documentary is a rollercoaster of emotions, proving that sometimes, fate is stranger than fiction. 

Charming, intelligent, and pure evil— Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes draws you into the mind of America’s most infamous serial killer. Using never-before-heard interviews, this chilling documentary lets Bundy tell his own story, revealing the sickening thoughts behind his horrifying crimes. How did he manipulate so many people? Why were his murders so shocking? If you think you know the full story, think again. This one will keep you up at night!

Imagine finding out that your relationship, your love, and even your heartbreak were all a lie. Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist tells the story of Manti Te’o, a star athlete whose world fell apart when his online girlfriend was exposed as a hoax. How did this happen? And how did it nearly destroy his career? With exclusive interviews and explosive revelations, this documentary takes you inside one of the craziest catfishing scandals ever and you will never believe what happens next!  

What happens when love and ethics collide? Tell Them You Love Me tells the shocking true tale of Dr. Anna Stubblefield, a respected professor who fell for Derrick Johnson, a non-verbal man with cerebral palsy. Was it true love or manipulation? This documentary explores passion, consent, and the boundaries of right and wrong in a case that shook the academic world. Emotional, thought-provoking, and deeply controversial- this is a must-watch for anyone who loves a gripping drama with twists. 

What drives two brothers to commit an unthinkable crime? The Menendez Brothers revisits the sensational case of Lyle and Erik Menendez, who reportedly killed their wealthy parents in 1989. Was it cold-blooded greed or years of secret abuse that pushed them over the edge? Through exclusive interviews and courtroom footage, this documentary dives deep into one of the most infamous trials in American history. 

Whether you believe the Menendez Brothers are guilty or victims themselves, this one will leave you questioning everything! Be it a con artist pulling off the scam of the century, a mystery that keeps you guessing, or a story so wild you will be Googling it afterward—there is never a dull moment with these picks!

‘The Penguin's’ Cristin Milioti Serves A 'Wicked' What-If for Fans, With A Surprising Revelation About Elphaba

Which Netflix documentary had you glued to your seat? Any favorites we forgot? Spill the titles in the comments below!