Watch Criminal Masterminds

Criminal Masterminds is a gripping true crime series that delves into the lives and crimes of some of the most cunning and elusive criminal masterminds. From notorious mafia bosses to brilliant con artists and scheming hackers, each episode takes a deep dive into the mental and emotional makeup of these criminals and the meticulous planning and execution of their crimes.

The show combines real-life footage, interviews with law enforcement officials, and re-enactments to bring the stories to life. Each episode typically focuses on one mastermind criminal and their unique story, revealing how their criminal empire was built, how they managed to evade capture for so long, and the eventual downfall that led to their capture and imprisonment.

One of the key strengths of the show is its ability to humanize these infamous criminals, revealing the complex motivations behind their criminal activities. Whether it's power, money, revenge, or some other driving force, each mastermind is shown to have a unique set of circumstances that led them down the path of crime.

The show not only provides an entertaining and engrossing look at some of history's most notorious criminals, but also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of unethical behavior. By examining the intricate details of these mastermind's schemes and the investigative work that eventually led to their capture, the show offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of criminal investigation and the tireless efforts of law enforcement officials to bring these criminals to justice.

One standout episode examines the life and crimes of notorious mafia boss John Gotti, who rose to power in the 1980s as the head of the Gambino crime family. Through interviews with FBI agents who worked the case, the episode shows how Gotti's charm, intelligence, and ruthlessness helped him build an empire that eventually led to his downfall.

Another episode focuses on the story of Frank Abagnale, a brilliant con artist who posed as a doctor, lawyer, and pilot in the 1960s and 70s, and whose exploits were later immortalized in the film Catch Me If You Can. Through interviews with Abagnale himself and the FBI agents who eventually caught him, the episode explores the psychological strategies that Abagnale used to manipulate the people around him and evade capture for so long.

Other episodes highlight the stories of hackers, drug lords, and white-collar criminals, all with their own unique talents and quirks that made them so successful. Throughout the show, viewers are left with a sense of awe at the sheer cunning and manipulation employed by these masterminds, while simultaneously recognizing the harm that their actions caused to countless innocent people.

In addition to its gripping narratives and engaging storytelling, Criminal Masterminds also benefits from its sleek and professional production values, with high-quality re-enactments and expertly edited footage that keeps the viewer thoroughly engrossed. Coupled with the show's in-depth research and insightful analysis, this results in a rich and rewarding viewing experience that is sure to captivate true crime aficionados and casual viewers alike.

Overall, Criminal Masterminds is a standout true crime series that offers a fresh and nuanced perspective on some of the most infamous criminals in history. With its engaging storytelling, insightful analysis, and high production values, the show is a must-watch for anyone interested in the darker aspects of human nature and the fascinating world of criminal investigation.

Criminal Masterminds is a series that ran for 1 seasons (15 episodes) between April 26, 2013 and on HISTORY Vault