Real Stories

Real Stories is an ongoing series about the true stories behind movies and TV shows. It’s that simple.

Browse the full Real Stories archive below

Mindhunter

The Horrific True Story That Inspired ‘Mindhunter’ Season 2

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The series will investigate a spate of child murders that took place between 1979 and 1981.

Annabelle

The Real Story Behind ‘Annabelle’

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Before she inspired a hit horror franchise, Annabelle was just another Raggedy Ann doll possessed by a dead girl.

Deadwood Series Finale

The Real Story Behind ‘Deadwood’

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Learn all about the real people and events that inspired the acclaimed HBO series.

Pikachu

Remembering When ‘Pokémon’ Caused Satanic Panic

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Is Pikachu in league with the Devil?

When They See Us

The Real Story Behind ‘When They See Us’

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Ava DuVernay’s upcoming Netflix series will explore the notorious real-life case that saw a group of teenagers convicted for a crime they didn’t commit.

Heat

The Real Story Behind Michael Mann’s ‘Heat’

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The cat-and-mouse chase. The iconic diner scene. The epic shootout. These things actually happened.

Jingle All The Way

The Wild True Story Behind the Cabbage Patch Kids Riots

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Laura Dern and Issa Rae will star in a new HBO series about this real-life version of ‘Jingle All the Way.’

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The Real Story Behind ‘White Boy Rick’

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How the law turned one kid into a criminal.