A grim true-crime documentary has become an unlikely post-Christmas hit for Netflix viewers in the UK, soaring into the platform's daily top 10 rankings.
Following weeks of festive programming, 'Death Cap: The Mushroom Murders' has captivated audiences, securing a place in the top five most-watched shows. It sits behind chart-toppers like Stranger Things, Captivated, Emily in Paris, and Man vs Baby.
The Case That Gripped the World
The series delves into the high-profile 2023 case of Erin Patterson, a 50-year-old Australian woman. Patterson was convicted of murdering three of her estranged husband's relatives and attempting to murder a fourth by poisoning a homemade beef Wellington with deadly death cap mushrooms.
The lethal lunch took place in July 2023 at Patterson's home. The victims were her former husband's parents, Gail and Don Patterson, and his aunt, Heather Wilkinson. Heather's husband, Ian Wilkinson, survived the poisoning after weeks in hospital but suffered lasting health damage.
Global Interest and a Landmark Broadcast
The case attracted immense global attention, leading to an unprecedented legal decision. For the first time, Australia's Supreme Court allowed a sentencing hearing to be broadcast live on television.
In July of this year, Patterson was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison with a non-parole period of 33 years. Her sentence was backdated to November 2, 2023, when she first entered custody.
While it was not disputed that she served the toxic meal, the trial centred on her knowledge and intent. Prosecutors highlighted strained family relations but did not establish a clear motive for the killings.
Viewer Reaction and Documentary Style
Despite the dark subject matter, or perhaps because of it, UK Netflix subscribers have been drawn to the series. Some viewers noted on forums like Reddit that the documentary started slowly but quickly became gripping.
One viewer praised the filmmaking, stating it effectively painted a picture of the small-town setting through interviews with neighbours, journalists, and legal representatives. Another described the crime as 'insane' and expressed sympathy for Patterson's children and the surviving victim.
The documentary's synopsis asks the central, haunting question: did Patterson meticulously plan a triple murder, or did she accidentally kill three people she loved?
'Death Cap: The Mushroom Murders' is available to stream now on Netflix in the UK.
