Mindhunter (TV series)
Updated: 12/20/2025, 12:57:34 PM Wikipedia source
Mindhunter is an American psychological crime thriller television series created by Joe Penhall, based on the 1995 true-crime book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit by John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker. The series debuted in 2017 and ran for two seasons. Executive producers included Penhall, Charlize Theron, and David Fincher, with Fincher serving as the series' most frequent director and de facto showrunner, overseeing many of the scriptwriting and production processes. The series stars Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, and Anna Torv, and follows the founding of the Behavioral Science Unit in the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the late 1970s and the beginning of criminal profiling. The first season of 10 episodes debuted worldwide on Netflix on October 13, 2017. The second season was released by Netflix on August 16, 2019.
Infobox
Genre
mw- Crime drama Psychological thriller
Created by
Joe Penhall
Based on
Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unitby John DouglasMark Olshaker
Starring
Jonathan Groff Holt McCallany Anna Torv Hannah Gross Cotter Smith Stacey Roca Cameron Britton Michael Cerveris Joe Tuttle Lauren Glazier Albert Jones Sierra McClain June Carryl
Music by
Jason Hill
Country of origin
United States
Original language
English
No. of seasons
2
No. of episodes
19
Executive producers
Beth Kono Charlize Theron Joe Penhall Ceán Chaffin Joshua Donen David Fincher Courtenay Miles
Producers
Jim Davidson Mark Winemaker Liz Hannah
Production location
Pennsylvania
Cinematography
Christopher Probst Erik Messerschmidt
Editors
Kirk Baxter Tyler Nelson Byron Smith Eric Zumbrunnen Grant Surmi
Running time
34–73 minutes
Production company
Denver and Delilah Productions
Network
Netflix
Release
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) –August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
Tables
1
1
Season
1
Episodes
10
Episodes
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
2
2
Season
2
Episodes
9
Episodes
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
| Season | Episodes | Originally released | ||
| 1 | 10 | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | ||
| 2 | 9 | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | ||
· Episodes › Season 1 (2017)
1
1
No.overall
1
No. inseason
1
Title
"Episode 1"
Directed by
David Fincher
Written by
Joe Penhall
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
FBI special agent Holden Ford is leading a hostage negotiation in Braddock, Pennsylvania in 1977. Although it ends with the assailant killing himself, Ford told that his negotiation was successful since he saved the hostage's life. He is promoted to teaching and takes an interest in a class delving into the minds of killers, taught by Peter Rathman. Ford, who is single and living alone, meets a sociology graduate student named Debbie Mitford, who encourages him to pursue further education in criminal psychology. Ford is referred to Bill Tench, head of behavioral science at the FBI. Tench takes Ford on his teaching classes around the country, sharing FBI techniques with local law enforcement. In Iowa, local police take offense when Ford suggests that Charles Manson may be a victim of his environment. As Tench counsels Ford to simplify his method, the two are approached by a local detective, Frank McGraw, seeking help with a brutal rape and murder case.
FBI special agent Holden Ford is leading a hostage negotiation in Braddock, Pennsylvania in 1977. Although it ends with the assailant killing himself, Ford told that his negotiation was successful since he saved the hostage's life. He is promoted to teaching and takes an interest in a class delving into the minds of killers, taught by Peter Rathman. Ford, who is single and living alone, meets a sociology graduate student named Debbie Mitford, who encourages him to pursue further education in criminal psychology. Ford is referred to Bill Tench, head of behavioral science at the FBI. Tench takes Ford on his teaching classes around the country, sharing FBI techniques with local law enforcement. In Iowa, local police take offense when Ford suggests that Charles Manson may be a victim of his environment. As Tench counsels Ford to simplify his method, the two are approached by a local detective, Frank McGraw, seeking help with a brutal rape and murder case.
No.overall
FBI special agent Holden Ford is leading a hostage negotiation in Braddock, Pennsylvania in 1977. Although it ends with the assailant killing himself, Ford told that his negotiation was successful since he saved the hostage's life. He is promoted to teaching and takes an interest in a class delving into the minds of killers, taught by Peter Rathman. Ford, who is single and living alone, meets a sociology graduate student named Debbie Mitford, who encourages him to pursue further education in criminal psychology. Ford is referred to Bill Tench, head of behavioral science at the FBI. Tench takes Ford on his teaching classes around the country, sharing FBI techniques with local law enforcement. In Iowa, local police take offense when Ford suggests that Charles Manson may be a victim of his environment. As Tench counsels Ford to simplify his method, the two are approached by a local detective, Frank McGraw, seeking help with a brutal rape and murder case.
2
2
No.overall
2
No. inseason
2
Title
"Episode 2"
Directed by
David Fincher
Written by
Joe Penhall
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
In Wichita, Kansas, an ADT serviceman named Dennis demands that a coworker hand over an empty cardboard core from a roll of electrical tape before he will give him a new one. Tench and Ford arrive in San Francisco, where Ford requests a conversation with Manson, imprisoned 30 miles away. Tench tells him gaining access to Manson is impossible, but local police suggest that Ford meet Edmund Kemper, "the co-ed killer". Tench has no interest in interviewing Kemper, so Ford goes alone, finding Kemper to be surprisingly intelligent and talkative. Ford convinces Tench to accompany him during his next interview with Kemper. Kemper describes his hatred of his mother and how he began torturing animals. Shepard is infuriated to learn about Ford and Tench's interviews with Kemper and relocates them to offices in the basement. Ford and Debbie Mitford are dating and she wants him to meet her mother, telling him that her mother judges her boyfriends by their relationship with their own mothers. An elderly woman in Sacramento is attacked and her dog's throat is slashed.
In Wichita, Kansas, an ADT serviceman named Dennis demands that a coworker hand over an empty cardboard core from a roll of electrical tape before he will give him a new one. Tench and Ford arrive in San Francisco, where Ford requests a conversation with Manson, imprisoned 30 miles away. Tench tells him gaining access to Manson is impossible, but local police suggest that Ford meet Edmund Kemper, "the co-ed killer". Tench has no interest in interviewing Kemper, so Ford goes alone, finding Kemper to be surprisingly intelligent and talkative. Ford convinces Tench to accompany him during his next interview with Kemper. Kemper describes his hatred of his mother and how he began torturing animals. Shepard is infuriated to learn about Ford and Tench's interviews with Kemper and relocates them to offices in the basement. Ford and Debbie Mitford are dating and she wants him to meet her mother, telling him that her mother judges her boyfriends by their relationship with their own mothers. An elderly woman in Sacramento is attacked and her dog's throat is slashed.
No.overall
In Wichita, Kansas, an ADT serviceman named Dennis demands that a coworker hand over an empty cardboard core from a roll of electrical tape before he will give him a new one. Tench and Ford arrive in San Francisco, where Ford requests a conversation with Manson, imprisoned 30 miles away. Tench tells him gaining access to Manson is impossible, but local police suggest that Ford meet Edmund Kemper, "the co-ed killer". Tench has no interest in interviewing Kemper, so Ford goes alone, finding Kemper to be surprisingly intelligent and talkative. Ford convinces Tench to accompany him during his next interview with Kemper. Kemper describes his hatred of his mother and how he began torturing animals. Shepard is infuriated to learn about Ford and Tench's interviews with Kemper and relocates them to offices in the basement. Ford and Debbie Mitford are dating and she wants him to meet her mother, telling him that her mother judges her boyfriends by their relationship with their own mothers. An elderly woman in Sacramento is attacked and her dog's throat is slashed.
3
3
No.overall
3
No. inseason
3
Title
"Episode 3"
Directed by
Asif Kapadia
Written by
Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Ruby Rae Spiegel
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
The ADT serviceman stares at a house before getting in a van and driving away. Ford and Tench approach Dr. Wendy Carr, a social sciences professor in Boston, Massachusetts, for academic input on their study. Their attempt to meet Benjamin Franklin Miller is declined. There is another attack of an elderly woman in Sacramento. Her dog is killed in the same way, but she is murdered. After an interview with Kemper, Tench posits that the suspect is white, in his 30s, and has a relationship with his mother similar to Kemper's. The police investigate Dwight Taylor, a man in his 30s with an abusive mother. Taylor is interrogated and confesses to the murder. Ford recommends the removal of certain words from the FBI's list of deviant words. Carr arrives in Fredericksburg as a consultant for the FBI.
The ADT serviceman stares at a house before getting in a van and driving away. Ford and Tench approach Dr. Wendy Carr, a social sciences professor in Boston, Massachusetts, for academic input on their study. Their attempt to meet Benjamin Franklin Miller is declined. There is another attack of an elderly woman in Sacramento. Her dog is killed in the same way, but she is murdered. After an interview with Kemper, Tench posits that the suspect is white, in his 30s, and has a relationship with his mother similar to Kemper's. The police investigate Dwight Taylor, a man in his 30s with an abusive mother. Taylor is interrogated and confesses to the murder. Ford recommends the removal of certain words from the FBI's list of deviant words. Carr arrives in Fredericksburg as a consultant for the FBI.
No.overall
The ADT serviceman stares at a house before getting in a van and driving away. Ford and Tench approach Dr. Wendy Carr, a social sciences professor in Boston, Massachusetts, for academic input on their study. Their attempt to meet Benjamin Franklin Miller is declined. There is another attack of an elderly woman in Sacramento. Her dog is killed in the same way, but she is murdered. After an interview with Kemper, Tench posits that the suspect is white, in his 30s, and has a relationship with his mother similar to Kemper's. The police investigate Dwight Taylor, a man in his 30s with an abusive mother. Taylor is interrogated and confesses to the murder. Ford recommends the removal of certain words from the FBI's list of deviant words. Carr arrives in Fredericksburg as a consultant for the FBI.
4
4
No.overall
4
No. inseason
4
Title
"Episode 4"
Directed by
Asif Kapadia
Written by
Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Dominic Orlando
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
Ford and Tench interview Montie Rissell, a serial killer who murdered five women in Virginia. Rissell shows no remorse for his actions and considers himself a victim. His technique is less sophisticated and organized than Kemper's. He killed his first victim because she was a prostitute who did not resist his attempt to rape her, and killed other victims for "talking too much". After being bribed with Big Red soda, Rissell reveals a hatred for his mother similar to Kemper's. Tench and Ford are in a car accident. In Altoona, Pennsylvania, Tench and Ford join local police officer Mark Ocasek in investigating the murder of Beverly Jean Shaw, a 22-year-old babysitter. They initially focus on a former drifter and local welder, Alvin Moran, but Moran's alibi checks out. Tench reveals that he and his wife have an adopted six-year-old son named Brian who is nonverbal. Back in Fredericksburg, Ford invites Carr to a bar to meet Debbie. Carr secures $385,000 in grant money to fund their research.
Ford and Tench interview Montie Rissell, a serial killer who murdered five women in Virginia. Rissell shows no remorse for his actions and considers himself a victim. His technique is less sophisticated and organized than Kemper's. He killed his first victim because she was a prostitute who did not resist his attempt to rape her, and killed other victims for "talking too much". After being bribed with Big Red soda, Rissell reveals a hatred for his mother similar to Kemper's. Tench and Ford are in a car accident. In Altoona, Pennsylvania, Tench and Ford join local police officer Mark Ocasek in investigating the murder of Beverly Jean Shaw, a 22-year-old babysitter. They initially focus on a former drifter and local welder, Alvin Moran, but Moran's alibi checks out. Tench reveals that he and his wife have an adopted six-year-old son named Brian who is nonverbal. Back in Fredericksburg, Ford invites Carr to a bar to meet Debbie. Carr secures $385,000 in grant money to fund their research.
No.overall
Ford and Tench interview Montie Rissell, a serial killer who murdered five women in Virginia. Rissell shows no remorse for his actions and considers himself a victim. His technique is less sophisticated and organized than Kemper's. He killed his first victim because she was a prostitute who did not resist his attempt to rape her, and killed other victims for "talking too much". After being bribed with Big Red soda, Rissell reveals a hatred for his mother similar to Kemper's. Tench and Ford are in a car accident. In Altoona, Pennsylvania, Tench and Ford join local police officer Mark Ocasek in investigating the murder of Beverly Jean Shaw, a 22-year-old babysitter. They initially focus on a former drifter and local welder, Alvin Moran, but Moran's alibi checks out. Tench reveals that he and his wife have an adopted six-year-old son named Brian who is nonverbal. Back in Fredericksburg, Ford invites Carr to a bar to meet Debbie. Carr secures $385,000 in grant money to fund their research.
5
5
No.overall
5
No. inseason
5
Title
"Episode 5"
Directed by
Tobias Lindholm
Written by
Jennifer Haley
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
In Altoona, the investigation into the murder of Beverly Jean continues. Ford, Tench, and Ocasek interview her fiancé, Benjamin "Benji" Barnwright. Benji begins crying profusely and Ford suspects that this reaction is not sincere. Benji's mother mentions Benji's brother-in-law, Frank Janderman. Tench and Ford discover Frank's violent past, but decide he does not have the pathology of a serial killer. After interviewing Frank, the police discover Benji's relationship with Beverly Jean was not as serious as Benji believed. Tench and Ford interrogate Benji. Along with Ocasek they interrogate Benji's sister Rose at her home, and they notice bruises on her arms. Ocasek warns Rose that if the FBI finds she had any involvement with the murder, she will lose her child. Rose later comes to the police station and admits that Frank was not home on the night of Beverly Jean's disappearance. She confesses that Frank called her to Benji's house, where she found Beverly Jean dead, and that she cleaned the scene while Benji and Frank disposed of the body. Ford questions Debbie's sexual history.
In Altoona, the investigation into the murder of Beverly Jean continues. Ford, Tench, and Ocasek interview her fiancé, Benjamin "Benji" Barnwright. Benji begins crying profusely and Ford suspects that this reaction is not sincere. Benji's mother mentions Benji's brother-in-law, Frank Janderman. Tench and Ford discover Frank's violent past, but decide he does not have the pathology of a serial killer. After interviewing Frank, the police discover Benji's relationship with Beverly Jean was not as serious as Benji believed. Tench and Ford interrogate Benji. Along with Ocasek they interrogate Benji's sister Rose at her home, and they notice bruises on her arms. Ocasek warns Rose that if the FBI finds she had any involvement with the murder, she will lose her child. Rose later comes to the police station and admits that Frank was not home on the night of Beverly Jean's disappearance. She confesses that Frank called her to Benji's house, where she found Beverly Jean dead, and that she cleaned the scene while Benji and Frank disposed of the body. Ford questions Debbie's sexual history.
No.overall
In Altoona, the investigation into the murder of Beverly Jean continues. Ford, Tench, and Ocasek interview her fiancé, Benjamin "Benji" Barnwright. Benji begins crying profusely and Ford suspects that this reaction is not sincere. Benji's mother mentions Benji's brother-in-law, Frank Janderman. Tench and Ford discover Frank's violent past, but decide he does not have the pathology of a serial killer. After interviewing Frank, the police discover Benji's relationship with Beverly Jean was not as serious as Benji believed. Tench and Ford interrogate Benji. Along with Ocasek they interrogate Benji's sister Rose at her home, and they notice bruises on her arms. Ocasek warns Rose that if the FBI finds she had any involvement with the murder, she will lose her child. Rose later comes to the police station and admits that Frank was not home on the night of Beverly Jean's disappearance. She confesses that Frank called her to Benji's house, where she found Beverly Jean dead, and that she cleaned the scene while Benji and Frank disposed of the body. Ford questions Debbie's sexual history.
6
6
No.overall
6
No. inseason
6
Title
"Episode 6"
Directed by
Tobias Lindholm
Written by
Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Tobias Lindholm
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
The ADT serviceman is seen practicing tying knots while his wife tends to their infant daughter. Shepard offers Carr a full-time consulting position at the FBI. In Altoona, Tench confronts Benji. Carr concludes that when Rose arrived she saw that Beverly Jean was alive and told Benji and Frank that they had to kill her. The police conclude that Benji, Rose, and Frank are all accomplices. They intend to seek full punishment for Benji and offer pleas to Rose and Frank. Ford and Tench disagree with this decision, believing that Frank is the most likely to kill again. Carr returns to Boston and asks her girlfriend, Annaliese Stilman, for her opinion on the FBI's job offer. Annaliese warns her about her career and warns that she will have to stay closeted, but Carr decides to accept the FBI's offer. In Fredericksburg, Debbie and Ford have dinner at Tench's home.
The ADT serviceman is seen practicing tying knots while his wife tends to their infant daughter. Shepard offers Carr a full-time consulting position at the FBI. In Altoona, Tench confronts Benji. Carr concludes that when Rose arrived she saw that Beverly Jean was alive and told Benji and Frank that they had to kill her. The police conclude that Benji, Rose, and Frank are all accomplices. They intend to seek full punishment for Benji and offer pleas to Rose and Frank. Ford and Tench disagree with this decision, believing that Frank is the most likely to kill again. Carr returns to Boston and asks her girlfriend, Annaliese Stilman, for her opinion on the FBI's job offer. Annaliese warns her about her career and warns that she will have to stay closeted, but Carr decides to accept the FBI's offer. In Fredericksburg, Debbie and Ford have dinner at Tench's home.
No.overall
The ADT serviceman is seen practicing tying knots while his wife tends to their infant daughter. Shepard offers Carr a full-time consulting position at the FBI. In Altoona, Tench confronts Benji. Carr concludes that when Rose arrived she saw that Beverly Jean was alive and told Benji and Frank that they had to kill her. The police conclude that Benji, Rose, and Frank are all accomplices. They intend to seek full punishment for Benji and offer pleas to Rose and Frank. Ford and Tench disagree with this decision, believing that Frank is the most likely to kill again. Carr returns to Boston and asks her girlfriend, Annaliese Stilman, for her opinion on the FBI's job offer. Annaliese warns her about her career and warns that she will have to stay closeted, but Carr decides to accept the FBI's offer. In Fredericksburg, Debbie and Ford have dinner at Tench's home.
7
7
No.overall
7
No. inseason
7
Title
"Episode 7"
Directed by
Andrew Douglas
Written by
Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Jennifer Haley
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
Tench and Ford travel to Oregon State Penitentiary in Salem, Oregon, to interview Jerry Brudos. Brudos admits to having a shoe fetish. Ford buys an extra-large pair of women's shoes for Brudos, which he uses to get Brudos talking. Carr begins feeding a stray cat in the laundry room of her new apartment building in Fredericksburg. Tench and Nancy talk about Brian's behavior at school. At their home, Brian's babysitter discovers a graphic and disturbing crime scene photo and tells the Tenches that she cannot continue babysitting for them.
Tench and Ford travel to Oregon State Penitentiary in Salem, Oregon, to interview Jerry Brudos. Brudos admits to having a shoe fetish. Ford buys an extra-large pair of women's shoes for Brudos, which he uses to get Brudos talking. Carr begins feeding a stray cat in the laundry room of her new apartment building in Fredericksburg. Tench and Nancy talk about Brian's behavior at school. At their home, Brian's babysitter discovers a graphic and disturbing crime scene photo and tells the Tenches that she cannot continue babysitting for them.
No.overall
Tench and Ford travel to Oregon State Penitentiary in Salem, Oregon, to interview Jerry Brudos. Brudos admits to having a shoe fetish. Ford buys an extra-large pair of women's shoes for Brudos, which he uses to get Brudos talking. Carr begins feeding a stray cat in the laundry room of her new apartment building in Fredericksburg. Tench and Nancy talk about Brian's behavior at school. At their home, Brian's babysitter discovers a graphic and disturbing crime scene photo and tells the Tenches that she cannot continue babysitting for them.
8
8
No.overall
8
No. inseason
8
Title
"Episode 8"
Directed by
Andrew Douglas
Written by
Story by : Erin LevyTeleplay by : Erin Levy and Jennifer Haley
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
Ford is invited to speak at an elementary school and is approached by a teacher, Janet Ebner, who is concerned with Principal Roger Wade's behavior of tickling children's feet and giving them nickels. Ford becomes suspicious that Debbie is cheating on him. The BSU hires Gregg Smith. Ford asks Smith to come with him to speak with Wade, whom he suspects of being a pedophile. Wade insists that tickling is a positive experience for the children and turns discipline enjoyable. Smith tells Shepard about this line of investigation, and Ford is advised to drop the issue. Ford returns to Oregon to meet with Brudos, who is more talkative. Debbie invites Ford to an event held by her graduate class, where he catches her in a compromising position with Patrick, her project partner. Ford angrily leaves. He later receives a call from the school superintendent informing him that Wade will be fired.
Ford is invited to speak at an elementary school and is approached by a teacher, Janet Ebner, who is concerned with Principal Roger Wade's behavior of tickling children's feet and giving them nickels. Ford becomes suspicious that Debbie is cheating on him. The BSU hires Gregg Smith. Ford asks Smith to come with him to speak with Wade, whom he suspects of being a pedophile. Wade insists that tickling is a positive experience for the children and turns discipline enjoyable. Smith tells Shepard about this line of investigation, and Ford is advised to drop the issue. Ford returns to Oregon to meet with Brudos, who is more talkative. Debbie invites Ford to an event held by her graduate class, where he catches her in a compromising position with Patrick, her project partner. Ford angrily leaves. He later receives a call from the school superintendent informing him that Wade will be fired.
No.overall
Ford is invited to speak at an elementary school and is approached by a teacher, Janet Ebner, who is concerned with Principal Roger Wade's behavior of tickling children's feet and giving them nickels. Ford becomes suspicious that Debbie is cheating on him. The BSU hires Gregg Smith. Ford asks Smith to come with him to speak with Wade, whom he suspects of being a pedophile. Wade insists that tickling is a positive experience for the children and turns discipline enjoyable. Smith tells Shepard about this line of investigation, and Ford is advised to drop the issue. Ford returns to Oregon to meet with Brudos, who is more talkative. Debbie invites Ford to an event held by her graduate class, where he catches her in a compromising position with Patrick, her project partner. Ford angrily leaves. He later receives a call from the school superintendent informing him that Wade will be fired.
9
9
No.overall
9
No. inseason
9
Title
"Episode 9"
Directed by
David Fincher
Written by
Story by : Carly WrayTeleplay by : Carly Wray and Jennifer Haley
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
10
10
No.overall
10
No. inseason
10
Title
"Episode 10"
Directed by
David Fincher
Written by
Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Jennifer Haley
Original release date
October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13)
Kemper writes repeatedly to Ford, saying he would like to meet with him again. Devier agrees to meet the FBI voluntarily. Ford uses techniques he learned from his interviews to achieve a confession. The police celebrate, and after having too many drinks, Ford brags about the unit's involvement with serial killers. His boasts reach the press. Carr flies to Rome, Georgia, in hopes of preventing the district attorney from seeking the death penalty for Devier and compromising their work by making their profiling techniques public. Ford and Debbie break up. Ford receives an urgent call from Kemper's doctor, learning he has been listed as Kemper's emergency contact and that Kemper has attempted suicide. The unit learns that the OPR has received the recording of the Speck interview, and interview Ford and Tench. Ford visits Kemper in the prison medical ward, and Kemper says he could kill Ford if he wanted to. When Kemper rises from his bed and puts his arms around Ford, Ford flees in terror before collapsing in the hall in a panic attack. In Kansas, the ADT serviceman is seen burning sadistic drawings of women.
Kemper writes repeatedly to Ford, saying he would like to meet with him again. Devier agrees to meet the FBI voluntarily. Ford uses techniques he learned from his interviews to achieve a confession. The police celebrate, and after having too many drinks, Ford brags about the unit's involvement with serial killers. His boasts reach the press. Carr flies to Rome, Georgia, in hopes of preventing the district attorney from seeking the death penalty for Devier and compromising their work by making their profiling techniques public. Ford and Debbie break up. Ford receives an urgent call from Kemper's doctor, learning he has been listed as Kemper's emergency contact and that Kemper has attempted suicide. The unit learns that the OPR has received the recording of the Speck interview, and interview Ford and Tench. Ford visits Kemper in the prison medical ward, and Kemper says he could kill Ford if he wanted to. When Kemper rises from his bed and puts his arms around Ford, Ford flees in terror before collapsing in the hall in a panic attack. In Kansas, the ADT serviceman is seen burning sadistic drawings of women.
No.overall
Kemper writes repeatedly to Ford, saying he would like to meet with him again. Devier agrees to meet the FBI voluntarily. Ford uses techniques he learned from his interviews to achieve a confession. The police celebrate, and after having too many drinks, Ford brags about the unit's involvement with serial killers. His boasts reach the press. Carr flies to Rome, Georgia, in hopes of preventing the district attorney from seeking the death penalty for Devier and compromising their work by making their profiling techniques public. Ford and Debbie break up. Ford receives an urgent call from Kemper's doctor, learning he has been listed as Kemper's emergency contact and that Kemper has attempted suicide. The unit learns that the OPR has received the recording of the Speck interview, and interview Ford and Tench. Ford visits Kemper in the prison medical ward, and Kemper says he could kill Ford if he wanted to. When Kemper rises from his bed and puts his arms around Ford, Ford flees in terror before collapsing in the hall in a panic attack. In Kansas, the ADT serviceman is seen burning sadistic drawings of women.
| No.overall | No. inseason | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date | |
| 1 | 1 | "Episode 1" | David Fincher | Joe Penhall | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| FBI special agent Holden Ford is leading a hostage negotiation in Braddock, Pennsylvania in 1977. Although it ends with the assailant killing himself, Ford told that his negotiation was successful since he saved the hostage's life. He is promoted to teaching and takes an interest in a class delving into the minds of killers, taught by Peter Rathman. Ford, who is single and living alone, meets a sociology graduate student named Debbie Mitford, who encourages him to pursue further education in criminal psychology. Ford is referred to Bill Tench, head of behavioral science at the FBI. Tench takes Ford on his teaching classes around the country, sharing FBI techniques with local law enforcement. In Iowa, local police take offense when Ford suggests that Charles Manson may be a victim of his environment. As Tench counsels Ford to simplify his method, the two are approached by a local detective, Frank McGraw, seeking help with a brutal rape and murder case. | ||||||
| 2 | 2 | "Episode 2" | David Fincher | Joe Penhall | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| In Wichita, Kansas, an ADT serviceman named Dennis demands that a coworker hand over an empty cardboard core from a roll of electrical tape before he will give him a new one. Tench and Ford arrive in San Francisco, where Ford requests a conversation with Manson, imprisoned 30 miles away. Tench tells him gaining access to Manson is impossible, but local police suggest that Ford meet Edmund Kemper, "the co-ed killer". Tench has no interest in interviewing Kemper, so Ford goes alone, finding Kemper to be surprisingly intelligent and talkative. Ford convinces Tench to accompany him during his next interview with Kemper. Kemper describes his hatred of his mother and how he began torturing animals. Shepard is infuriated to learn about Ford and Tench's interviews with Kemper and relocates them to offices in the basement. Ford and Debbie Mitford are dating and she wants him to meet her mother, telling him that her mother judges her boyfriends by their relationship with their own mothers. An elderly woman in Sacramento is attacked and her dog's throat is slashed. | ||||||
| 3 | 3 | "Episode 3" | Asif Kapadia | Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Ruby Rae Spiegel | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| The ADT serviceman stares at a house before getting in a van and driving away. Ford and Tench approach Dr. Wendy Carr, a social sciences professor in Boston, Massachusetts, for academic input on their study. Their attempt to meet Benjamin Franklin Miller is declined. There is another attack of an elderly woman in Sacramento. Her dog is killed in the same way, but she is murdered. After an interview with Kemper, Tench posits that the suspect is white, in his 30s, and has a relationship with his mother similar to Kemper's. The police investigate Dwight Taylor, a man in his 30s with an abusive mother. Taylor is interrogated and confesses to the murder. Ford recommends the removal of certain words from the FBI's list of deviant words. Carr arrives in Fredericksburg as a consultant for the FBI. | ||||||
| 4 | 4 | "Episode 4" | Asif Kapadia | Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Dominic Orlando | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| Ford and Tench interview Montie Rissell, a serial killer who murdered five women in Virginia. Rissell shows no remorse for his actions and considers himself a victim. His technique is less sophisticated and organized than Kemper's. He killed his first victim because she was a prostitute who did not resist his attempt to rape her, and killed other victims for "talking too much". After being bribed with Big Red soda, Rissell reveals a hatred for his mother similar to Kemper's. Tench and Ford are in a car accident. In Altoona, Pennsylvania, Tench and Ford join local police officer Mark Ocasek in investigating the murder of Beverly Jean Shaw, a 22-year-old babysitter. They initially focus on a former drifter and local welder, Alvin Moran, but Moran's alibi checks out. Tench reveals that he and his wife have an adopted six-year-old son named Brian who is nonverbal. Back in Fredericksburg, Ford invites Carr to a bar to meet Debbie. Carr secures $385,000 in grant money to fund their research. | ||||||
| 5 | 5 | "Episode 5" | Tobias Lindholm | Jennifer Haley | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| In Altoona, the investigation into the murder of Beverly Jean continues. Ford, Tench, and Ocasek interview her fiancé, Benjamin "Benji" Barnwright. Benji begins crying profusely and Ford suspects that this reaction is not sincere. Benji's mother mentions Benji's brother-in-law, Frank Janderman. Tench and Ford discover Frank's violent past, but decide he does not have the pathology of a serial killer. After interviewing Frank, the police discover Benji's relationship with Beverly Jean was not as serious as Benji believed. Tench and Ford interrogate Benji. Along with Ocasek they interrogate Benji's sister Rose at her home, and they notice bruises on her arms. Ocasek warns Rose that if the FBI finds she had any involvement with the murder, she will lose her child. Rose later comes to the police station and admits that Frank was not home on the night of Beverly Jean's disappearance. She confesses that Frank called her to Benji's house, where she found Beverly Jean dead, and that she cleaned the scene while Benji and Frank disposed of the body. Ford questions Debbie's sexual history. | ||||||
| 6 | 6 | "Episode 6" | Tobias Lindholm | Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Tobias Lindholm | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| The ADT serviceman is seen practicing tying knots while his wife tends to their infant daughter. Shepard offers Carr a full-time consulting position at the FBI. In Altoona, Tench confronts Benji. Carr concludes that when Rose arrived she saw that Beverly Jean was alive and told Benji and Frank that they had to kill her. The police conclude that Benji, Rose, and Frank are all accomplices. They intend to seek full punishment for Benji and offer pleas to Rose and Frank. Ford and Tench disagree with this decision, believing that Frank is the most likely to kill again. Carr returns to Boston and asks her girlfriend, Annaliese Stilman, for her opinion on the FBI's job offer. Annaliese warns her about her career and warns that she will have to stay closeted, but Carr decides to accept the FBI's offer. In Fredericksburg, Debbie and Ford have dinner at Tench's home. | ||||||
| 7 | 7 | "Episode 7" | Andrew Douglas | Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Jennifer Haley | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| Tench and Ford travel to Oregon State Penitentiary in Salem, Oregon, to interview Jerry Brudos. Brudos admits to having a shoe fetish. Ford buys an extra-large pair of women's shoes for Brudos, which he uses to get Brudos talking. Carr begins feeding a stray cat in the laundry room of her new apartment building in Fredericksburg. Tench and Nancy talk about Brian's behavior at school. At their home, Brian's babysitter discovers a graphic and disturbing crime scene photo and tells the Tenches that she cannot continue babysitting for them. | ||||||
| 8 | 8 | "Episode 8" | Andrew Douglas | Story by : Erin LevyTeleplay by : Erin Levy and Jennifer Haley | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| Ford is invited to speak at an elementary school and is approached by a teacher, Janet Ebner, who is concerned with Principal Roger Wade's behavior of tickling children's feet and giving them nickels. Ford becomes suspicious that Debbie is cheating on him. The BSU hires Gregg Smith. Ford asks Smith to come with him to speak with Wade, whom he suspects of being a pedophile. Wade insists that tickling is a positive experience for the children and turns discipline enjoyable. Smith tells Shepard about this line of investigation, and Ford is advised to drop the issue. Ford returns to Oregon to meet with Brudos, who is more talkative. Debbie invites Ford to an event held by her graduate class, where he catches her in a compromising position with Patrick, her project partner. Ford angrily leaves. He later receives a call from the school superintendent informing him that Wade will be fired. | ||||||
| 9 | 9 | "Episode 9" | David Fincher | Story by : Carly WrayTeleplay by : Carly Wray and Jennifer Haley | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| The ADT serviceman sits in the house of an intended victim. When the clock strikes midnight and the victim shows no sign of arriving, he becomes fed up with waiting, tidies up after himself, and leaves, frustrated. At the Joliet Correctional Center in Joliet, Illinois, Ford and Tench interview Richard Speck, who shows no interest in cooperating until Ford asks what gave him the right to take "eight ripe cunts out of the world". Tench recommends that Ford redact his unconventional comment from the interview. Ford and Debbie reconcile. Ford is confronted by Wade's wife at his apartment. Carr notices that food she has been leaving for the cat is no longer being eaten. The unit releases information regarding the murder of Lisa Dawn Porter, a 12-year-old-girl in Adairsville, Georgia. Police notice that the trees on her street had recently been trimmed, and focus on Darrell Gene Devier, who did the work. Carr is summoned by Shepard, who informs her that Speck has filed a complaint accusing Ford of "fucking with his head". The unit gives the redacted interview transcript to the OPR. Back in the basement, the team agrees to destroy the original tape, but Gregg decides to mail it to the OPR in secret. | ||||||
| 10 | 10 | "Episode 10" | David Fincher | Story by : Joe PenhallTeleplay by : Joe Penhall and Jennifer Haley | October 13, 2017 (2017-10-13) | |
| Kemper writes repeatedly to Ford, saying he would like to meet with him again. Devier agrees to meet the FBI voluntarily. Ford uses techniques he learned from his interviews to achieve a confession. The police celebrate, and after having too many drinks, Ford brags about the unit's involvement with serial killers. His boasts reach the press. Carr flies to Rome, Georgia, in hopes of preventing the district attorney from seeking the death penalty for Devier and compromising their work by making their profiling techniques public. Ford and Debbie break up. Ford receives an urgent call from Kemper's doctor, learning he has been listed as Kemper's emergency contact and that Kemper has attempted suicide. The unit learns that the OPR has received the recording of the Speck interview, and interview Ford and Tench. Ford visits Kemper in the prison medical ward, and Kemper says he could kill Ford if he wanted to. When Kemper rises from his bed and puts his arms around Ford, Ford flees in terror before collapsing in the hall in a panic attack. In Kansas, the ADT serviceman is seen burning sadistic drawings of women. | ||||||
· Episodes › Season 2 (2019)
11
11
No.overall
11
No. inseason
1
Title
"Episode 1"
Directed by
David Fincher
Written by
Story by : Doug Jung and Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Courtenay Miles
Original release date
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
The ADT serviceman's wife walks in on him performing autoerotic asphyxiation. Holden wakes up in the hospital and learns that he had a panic attack. Tench, who has been looking for him, retrieves him from the hospital. Shepard retires and his replacement, Ted Gunn, gives his full support to the BSU and does away with the OPR inquiry. Ford tells Carr about his panic attacks and says he feels much better, despite being told that he has a panic disorder. She advises him to be careful of the signs that may precede another attack. Shepard angrily reveals to Ford that he was forced to retire because someone had to take the blame for Ford's breaches of professional conduct. Ford suffers another panic attack on hearing this but nobody else sees it.
The ADT serviceman's wife walks in on him performing autoerotic asphyxiation. Holden wakes up in the hospital and learns that he had a panic attack. Tench, who has been looking for him, retrieves him from the hospital. Shepard retires and his replacement, Ted Gunn, gives his full support to the BSU and does away with the OPR inquiry. Ford tells Carr about his panic attacks and says he feels much better, despite being told that he has a panic disorder. She advises him to be careful of the signs that may precede another attack. Shepard angrily reveals to Ford that he was forced to retire because someone had to take the blame for Ford's breaches of professional conduct. Ford suffers another panic attack on hearing this but nobody else sees it.
No.overall
The ADT serviceman's wife walks in on him performing autoerotic asphyxiation. Holden wakes up in the hospital and learns that he had a panic attack. Tench, who has been looking for him, retrieves him from the hospital. Shepard retires and his replacement, Ted Gunn, gives his full support to the BSU and does away with the OPR inquiry. Ford tells Carr about his panic attacks and says he feels much better, despite being told that he has a panic disorder. She advises him to be careful of the signs that may precede another attack. Shepard angrily reveals to Ford that he was forced to retire because someone had to take the blame for Ford's breaches of professional conduct. Ford suffers another panic attack on hearing this but nobody else sees it.
12
12
No.overall
12
No. inseason
2
Title
"Episode 2"
Directed by
David Fincher
Written by
Story by : Doug Jung and Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Courtenay Miles
Original release date
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
The ADT serviceman's wife gives him a pamphlet about overcoming sexual deviance. Tench begins to look into the BTK killer and, with Ford's help, notices that he models his behavior on that of other killers, including David Berkowitz. Tench and a local policeman meet with BTK's only known surviving victim, who is traumatized. They interview Berkowitz, who admits to lying about hearing voices and demons, adding to their data on classifications of killers. Tench and Carr discuss Ford's panic attacks and agree to share information and look out for him. A body is discovered in a house that Nancy, Tench's wife, is showing as the realtor.
The ADT serviceman's wife gives him a pamphlet about overcoming sexual deviance. Tench begins to look into the BTK killer and, with Ford's help, notices that he models his behavior on that of other killers, including David Berkowitz. Tench and a local policeman meet with BTK's only known surviving victim, who is traumatized. They interview Berkowitz, who admits to lying about hearing voices and demons, adding to their data on classifications of killers. Tench and Carr discuss Ford's panic attacks and agree to share information and look out for him. A body is discovered in a house that Nancy, Tench's wife, is showing as the realtor.
No.overall
The ADT serviceman's wife gives him a pamphlet about overcoming sexual deviance. Tench begins to look into the BTK killer and, with Ford's help, notices that he models his behavior on that of other killers, including David Berkowitz. Tench and a local policeman meet with BTK's only known surviving victim, who is traumatized. They interview Berkowitz, who admits to lying about hearing voices and demons, adding to their data on classifications of killers. Tench and Carr discuss Ford's panic attacks and agree to share information and look out for him. A body is discovered in a house that Nancy, Tench's wife, is showing as the realtor.
13
13
No.overall
13
No. inseason
3
Title
"Episode 3"
Directed by
David Fincher
Written by
Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Joshua Donen and Phillip Howze
Original release date
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
While in Atlanta with Jim Barney to interview killers William "Junior" Pierce and William Henry Hance, Ford is approached by three mothers who ask him to investigate the seemingly related murders of their children. The body found in Nancy's realty house is revealed to have been that of a toddler, who was tied to a cross. Tench offers his assistance to the police detective. Carr strikes up a romantic relationship with Kay, a bartender.
While in Atlanta with Jim Barney to interview killers William "Junior" Pierce and William Henry Hance, Ford is approached by three mothers who ask him to investigate the seemingly related murders of their children. The body found in Nancy's realty house is revealed to have been that of a toddler, who was tied to a cross. Tench offers his assistance to the police detective. Carr strikes up a romantic relationship with Kay, a bartender.
No.overall
While in Atlanta with Jim Barney to interview killers William "Junior" Pierce and William Henry Hance, Ford is approached by three mothers who ask him to investigate the seemingly related murders of their children. The body found in Nancy's realty house is revealed to have been that of a toddler, who was tied to a cross. Tench offers his assistance to the police detective. Carr strikes up a romantic relationship with Kay, a bartender.
14
14
No.overall
14
No. inseason
4
Title
"Episode 4"
Directed by
Andrew Dominik
Written by
Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Jason Johnson & Colin J. Louro and Joshua Donen
Original release date
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
Ford's profile of the child murderer in Atlanta as a black serial killer would be politically costly to Atlanta authorities if publicized, and the FBI is removed from the investigation. Carr goes on a date with Kay and reveals that she broke up with her previous girlfriend, who had been her professor, feeling there was a power imbalance in their relationship. Carr and Smith interview Elmer Wayne Henley, Jr. In the interview, Carr reveals that she is a lesbian, but Smith believes this to have been a ruse to get Henley to speak. The Tenches find out that their son Brian was involved in the murder of the toddler.
Ford's profile of the child murderer in Atlanta as a black serial killer would be politically costly to Atlanta authorities if publicized, and the FBI is removed from the investigation. Carr goes on a date with Kay and reveals that she broke up with her previous girlfriend, who had been her professor, feeling there was a power imbalance in their relationship. Carr and Smith interview Elmer Wayne Henley, Jr. In the interview, Carr reveals that she is a lesbian, but Smith believes this to have been a ruse to get Henley to speak. The Tenches find out that their son Brian was involved in the murder of the toddler.
No.overall
Ford's profile of the child murderer in Atlanta as a black serial killer would be politically costly to Atlanta authorities if publicized, and the FBI is removed from the investigation. Carr goes on a date with Kay and reveals that she broke up with her previous girlfriend, who had been her professor, feeling there was a power imbalance in their relationship. Carr and Smith interview Elmer Wayne Henley, Jr. In the interview, Carr reveals that she is a lesbian, but Smith believes this to have been a ruse to get Henley to speak. The Tenches find out that their son Brian was involved in the murder of the toddler.
15
15
No.overall
15
No. inseason
5
Title
"Episode 5"
Directed by
Andrew Dominik
Written by
Story by : Pamela CederquistTeleplay by : Pamela Cederquist and Liz Hannah
Original release date
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
Carr's relationship with Kay heats up. Ford and Tench consult Kemper briefly to get insights into the BTK case before interviewing Charles Manson. Manson denies responsibility for any murders. Tench becomes upset during the interview and ends it early. Ford goes alone to interview Tex Watson, one of Manson's followers, while Tench flies home on a late-night flight. Watson details how Manson influenced his behavior and then details his role in the Tate murders. Carr, Ford, and Tench attend a dinner party at Gunn's house. Tench tells Carr what is going on at home. Another body is found in Atlanta.
Carr's relationship with Kay heats up. Ford and Tench consult Kemper briefly to get insights into the BTK case before interviewing Charles Manson. Manson denies responsibility for any murders. Tench becomes upset during the interview and ends it early. Ford goes alone to interview Tex Watson, one of Manson's followers, while Tench flies home on a late-night flight. Watson details how Manson influenced his behavior and then details his role in the Tate murders. Carr, Ford, and Tench attend a dinner party at Gunn's house. Tench tells Carr what is going on at home. Another body is found in Atlanta.
No.overall
Carr's relationship with Kay heats up. Ford and Tench consult Kemper briefly to get insights into the BTK case before interviewing Charles Manson. Manson denies responsibility for any murders. Tench becomes upset during the interview and ends it early. Ford goes alone to interview Tex Watson, one of Manson's followers, while Tench flies home on a late-night flight. Watson details how Manson influenced his behavior and then details his role in the Tate murders. Carr, Ford, and Tench attend a dinner party at Gunn's house. Tench tells Carr what is going on at home. Another body is found in Atlanta.
16
16
No.overall
16
No. inseason
6
Title
"Episode 6"
Directed by
Carl Franklin
Written by
Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Courtenay Miles
Original release date
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
As the situation in Atlanta worsens, the FBI is again sent to investigate. With Ford and Tench in Atlanta, Carr and Smith go to New York to interview Paul Bateson. The Tenches are concerned that Brian is age-regressing in response to his role in the murder of the toddler.
As the situation in Atlanta worsens, the FBI is again sent to investigate. With Ford and Tench in Atlanta, Carr and Smith go to New York to interview Paul Bateson. The Tenches are concerned that Brian is age-regressing in response to his role in the murder of the toddler.
No.overall
As the situation in Atlanta worsens, the FBI is again sent to investigate. With Ford and Tench in Atlanta, Carr and Smith go to New York to interview Paul Bateson. The Tenches are concerned that Brian is age-regressing in response to his role in the murder of the toddler.
17
17
No.overall
17
No. inseason
7
Title
"Episode 7"
Directed by
Carl Franklin
Written by
Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Liz Hannah
Original release date
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
Ford and Tench hit a dead end with the investigation in Atlanta. Ford suggests a new plan to lure the killer. Carr is disappointed when she is told by Gunn not to interview any more criminals, and to focus instead on her analysis. She invites Kay to move in with her, but Kay is upset by the dispassionate way Carr asks her and does not accept.
Ford and Tench hit a dead end with the investigation in Atlanta. Ford suggests a new plan to lure the killer. Carr is disappointed when she is told by Gunn not to interview any more criminals, and to focus instead on her analysis. She invites Kay to move in with her, but Kay is upset by the dispassionate way Carr asks her and does not accept.
No.overall
Ford and Tench hit a dead end with the investigation in Atlanta. Ford suggests a new plan to lure the killer. Carr is disappointed when she is told by Gunn not to interview any more criminals, and to focus instead on her analysis. She invites Kay to move in with her, but Kay is upset by the dispassionate way Carr asks her and does not accept.
18
18
No.overall
18
No. inseason
8
Title
"Episode 8"
Directed by
Carl Franklin
Written by
Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Alex Metcalf
Original release date
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
Ford is persistent with his profiling to catch the Atlanta murderer, and recommends that they watch the bridges in the area. An upset Tench attempts to reconnect with Brian, while Nancy shows strong signs of wanting to move. Carr overhears Kay having a conversation with her ex-husband in which she denies their relationship is important, and decides to leave her. In Atlanta, the FBI and the local police catch a potential suspect at a murder site.
Ford is persistent with his profiling to catch the Atlanta murderer, and recommends that they watch the bridges in the area. An upset Tench attempts to reconnect with Brian, while Nancy shows strong signs of wanting to move. Carr overhears Kay having a conversation with her ex-husband in which she denies their relationship is important, and decides to leave her. In Atlanta, the FBI and the local police catch a potential suspect at a murder site.
No.overall
Ford is persistent with his profiling to catch the Atlanta murderer, and recommends that they watch the bridges in the area. An upset Tench attempts to reconnect with Brian, while Nancy shows strong signs of wanting to move. Carr overhears Kay having a conversation with her ex-husband in which she denies their relationship is important, and decides to leave her. In Atlanta, the FBI and the local police catch a potential suspect at a murder site.
19
19
No.overall
19
No. inseason
9
Title
"Episode 9"
Directed by
Carl Franklin
Written by
Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Shaun Grant
Original release date
August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16)
The police and FBI focus their investigation on Wayne Williams as the primary suspect of the Atlanta murders, but find it difficult to obtain physical evidence. Williams is later charged for two of the murders, but Ford doubts himself after APD decides to close all the child murder cases. Tench is stunned when he returns home to see that Nancy has moved out of the house with Brian. Ford watches a press conference concluding the Atlanta case, but continues to be troubled knowing that he could not solve the rest of the missing children's murders and bring closure for the families involved. The BTK Strangler is shown continuing to autoerotically asphyxiate, now surrounded by the drivers' licenses, photographs, and other trophies from his victims.
The police and FBI focus their investigation on Wayne Williams as the primary suspect of the Atlanta murders, but find it difficult to obtain physical evidence. Williams is later charged for two of the murders, but Ford doubts himself after APD decides to close all the child murder cases. Tench is stunned when he returns home to see that Nancy has moved out of the house with Brian. Ford watches a press conference concluding the Atlanta case, but continues to be troubled knowing that he could not solve the rest of the missing children's murders and bring closure for the families involved. The BTK Strangler is shown continuing to autoerotically asphyxiate, now surrounded by the drivers' licenses, photographs, and other trophies from his victims.
No.overall
The police and FBI focus their investigation on Wayne Williams as the primary suspect of the Atlanta murders, but find it difficult to obtain physical evidence. Williams is later charged for two of the murders, but Ford doubts himself after APD decides to close all the child murder cases. Tench is stunned when he returns home to see that Nancy has moved out of the house with Brian. Ford watches a press conference concluding the Atlanta case, but continues to be troubled knowing that he could not solve the rest of the missing children's murders and bring closure for the families involved. The BTK Strangler is shown continuing to autoerotically asphyxiate, now surrounded by the drivers' licenses, photographs, and other trophies from his victims.
| No.overall | No. inseason | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date | |
| 11 | 1 | "Episode 1" | David Fincher | Story by : Doug Jung and Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Courtenay Miles | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | |
| The ADT serviceman's wife walks in on him performing autoerotic asphyxiation. Holden wakes up in the hospital and learns that he had a panic attack. Tench, who has been looking for him, retrieves him from the hospital. Shepard retires and his replacement, Ted Gunn, gives his full support to the BSU and does away with the OPR inquiry. Ford tells Carr about his panic attacks and says he feels much better, despite being told that he has a panic disorder. She advises him to be careful of the signs that may precede another attack. Shepard angrily reveals to Ford that he was forced to retire because someone had to take the blame for Ford's breaches of professional conduct. Ford suffers another panic attack on hearing this but nobody else sees it. | ||||||
| 12 | 2 | "Episode 2" | David Fincher | Story by : Doug Jung and Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Courtenay Miles | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | |
| The ADT serviceman's wife gives him a pamphlet about overcoming sexual deviance. Tench begins to look into the BTK killer and, with Ford's help, notices that he models his behavior on that of other killers, including David Berkowitz. Tench and a local policeman meet with BTK's only known surviving victim, who is traumatized. They interview Berkowitz, who admits to lying about hearing voices and demons, adding to their data on classifications of killers. Tench and Carr discuss Ford's panic attacks and agree to share information and look out for him. A body is discovered in a house that Nancy, Tench's wife, is showing as the realtor. | ||||||
| 13 | 3 | "Episode 3" | David Fincher | Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Joshua Donen and Phillip Howze | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | |
| While in Atlanta with Jim Barney to interview killers William "Junior" Pierce and William Henry Hance, Ford is approached by three mothers who ask him to investigate the seemingly related murders of their children. The body found in Nancy's realty house is revealed to have been that of a toddler, who was tied to a cross. Tench offers his assistance to the police detective. Carr strikes up a romantic relationship with Kay, a bartender. | ||||||
| 14 | 4 | "Episode 4" | Andrew Dominik | Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Jason Johnson & Colin J. Louro and Joshua Donen | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | |
| Ford's profile of the child murderer in Atlanta as a black serial killer would be politically costly to Atlanta authorities if publicized, and the FBI is removed from the investigation. Carr goes on a date with Kay and reveals that she broke up with her previous girlfriend, who had been her professor, feeling there was a power imbalance in their relationship. Carr and Smith interview Elmer Wayne Henley, Jr. In the interview, Carr reveals that she is a lesbian, but Smith believes this to have been a ruse to get Henley to speak. The Tenches find out that their son Brian was involved in the murder of the toddler. | ||||||
| 15 | 5 | "Episode 5" | Andrew Dominik | Story by : Pamela CederquistTeleplay by : Pamela Cederquist and Liz Hannah | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | |
| Carr's relationship with Kay heats up. Ford and Tench consult Kemper briefly to get insights into the BTK case before interviewing Charles Manson. Manson denies responsibility for any murders. Tench becomes upset during the interview and ends it early. Ford goes alone to interview Tex Watson, one of Manson's followers, while Tench flies home on a late-night flight. Watson details how Manson influenced his behavior and then details his role in the Tate murders. Carr, Ford, and Tench attend a dinner party at Gunn's house. Tench tells Carr what is going on at home. Another body is found in Atlanta. | ||||||
| 16 | 6 | "Episode 6" | Carl Franklin | Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Courtenay Miles | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | |
| As the situation in Atlanta worsens, the FBI is again sent to investigate. With Ford and Tench in Atlanta, Carr and Smith go to New York to interview Paul Bateson. The Tenches are concerned that Brian is age-regressing in response to his role in the murder of the toddler. | ||||||
| 17 | 7 | "Episode 7" | Carl Franklin | Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Liz Hannah | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | |
| Ford and Tench hit a dead end with the investigation in Atlanta. Ford suggests a new plan to lure the killer. Carr is disappointed when she is told by Gunn not to interview any more criminals, and to focus instead on her analysis. She invites Kay to move in with her, but Kay is upset by the dispassionate way Carr asks her and does not accept. | ||||||
| 18 | 8 | "Episode 8" | Carl Franklin | Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Alex Metcalf | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | |
| Ford is persistent with his profiling to catch the Atlanta murderer, and recommends that they watch the bridges in the area. An upset Tench attempts to reconnect with Brian, while Nancy shows strong signs of wanting to move. Carr overhears Kay having a conversation with her ex-husband in which she denies their relationship is important, and decides to leave her. In Atlanta, the FBI and the local police catch a potential suspect at a murder site. | ||||||
| 19 | 9 | "Episode 9" | Carl Franklin | Story by : Joshua Donen & Courtenay MilesTeleplay by : Shaun Grant | August 16, 2019 (2019-08-16) | |
| The police and FBI focus their investigation on Wayne Williams as the primary suspect of the Atlanta murders, but find it difficult to obtain physical evidence. Williams is later charged for two of the murders, but Ford doubts himself after APD decides to close all the child murder cases. Tench is stunned when he returns home to see that Nancy has moved out of the house with Brian. Ford watches a press conference concluding the Atlanta case, but continues to be troubled knowing that he could not solve the rest of the missing children's murders and bring closure for the families involved. The BTK Strangler is shown continuing to autoerotically asphyxiate, now surrounded by the drivers' licenses, photographs, and other trophies from his victims. | ||||||
· Reception › Accolades
2018
2018
Year
2018
Award
Dorian Awards
Category
TV Performance of the Year – Actor
Nominee(s)
Jonathan Groff
Result
Nominated
Primetime Emmy Awards
Primetime Emmy Awards
Year
Primetime Emmy Awards
Award
Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series
Category
Cameron Britton
Nominee(s)
Nominated
Satellite Awards
Satellite Awards
Year
Satellite Awards
Award
Best Actor in a Drama / Genre Series
Category
Jonathan Groff
Nominee(s)
Won
Best Drama Series
Best Drama Series
Year
Best Drama Series
Award
Mindhunter
Category
Nominated
Saturn Awards
Saturn Awards
Year
Saturn Awards
Award
Best New Media Television Series
Category
Mindhunter
Nominee(s)
Nominated
TCA Awards
TCA Awards
Year
TCA Awards
Award
Outstanding New Program
Category
Mindhunter
Nominee(s)
Nominated
USC Scripter Awards
USC Scripter Awards
Year
USC Scripter Awards
Award
Best Adapted TV Screenplay
Category
Joe Penhall, Jennifer Haley, John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker (for "Episode 10")
Nominee(s)
Nominated
2020
2020
Year
2020
Award
Primetime Emmy Awards
Category
Outstanding Cinematography for a Single-Camera Series (One Hour)
Nominee(s)
Erik Messerschmidt (for "Episode 6")
Result
Nominated
Satellite Awards
Satellite Awards
Year
Satellite Awards
Award
Best Actor in a Drama / Genre Series
Category
Jonathan Groff
Nominee(s)
Nominated
Best Drama Series
Best Drama Series
Year
Best Drama Series
Award
Mindhunter
Category
Nominated
Writers Guild of America Awards
Writers Guild of America Awards
Year
Writers Guild of America Awards
Award
Drama Series
Category
Pamela Cederquist, Joshua Donen, Marcus Gardley, Shaun Grant, Liz Hannah, Phillip Howze, Jason Johnson, Doug Jung, Colin Louro, Alex Metcalf, Courtenay Miles, Dominic Orlando, Joe Penhall and Ruby Rae Spiegel
Nominee(s)
Nominated
| Year | Award | Category | Nominee(s) | Result | Ref. |
| 2018 | Dorian Awards | TV Performance of the Year – Actor | Jonathan Groff | Nominated | |
| Primetime Emmy Awards | Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series | Cameron Britton | Nominated | ||
| Satellite Awards | Best Actor in a Drama / Genre Series | Jonathan Groff | Won | ||
| Best Drama Series | Mindhunter | Nominated | |||
| Saturn Awards | Best New Media Television Series | Mindhunter | Nominated | ||
| TCA Awards | Outstanding New Program | Mindhunter | Nominated | ||
| USC Scripter Awards | Best Adapted TV Screenplay | Joe Penhall, Jennifer Haley, John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker (for "Episode 10") | Nominated | ||
| 2020 | Primetime Emmy Awards | Outstanding Cinematography for a Single-Camera Series (One Hour) | Erik Messerschmidt (for "Episode 6") | Nominated | |
| Satellite Awards | Best Actor in a Drama / Genre Series | Jonathan Groff | Nominated | ||
| Best Drama Series | Mindhunter | Nominated | |||
| Writers Guild of America Awards | Drama Series | Pamela Cederquist, Joshua Donen, Marcus Gardley, Shaun Grant, Liz Hannah, Phillip Howze, Jason Johnson, Doug Jung, Colin Louro, Alex Metcalf, Courtenay Miles, Dominic Orlando, Joe Penhall and Ruby Rae Spiegel | Nominated |
References
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