Watch The Last Defense

The Last Defense is a gripping true-crime series that explores the intricacies of the United States criminal justice system. The show premiered on ABC in 2018, and its ten-episode run was executive produced by actress Viola Davis, who also serves as the show's host.

The series delves into the stories of individuals who have been convicted of heinous crimes and explores the legal battles that take place to exonerate the wrongfully accused. Throughout each episode, viewers are presented with compelling evidence and witness testimony that paints a picture of what actually took place during these crimes.

The show's first episode centers on the case of Darlie Routier, who was convicted of killing her two young sons in 1996. The episode takes viewers through the sequence of events leading up to the murder and highlights the prosecution's arguments against Routier's innocence. The episode also features interviews with those involved in the case, including Routier's husband, Darin, and her defense attorney, Douglas Mulder.

In subsequent episodes, The Last Defense examines other high-profile cases such as Julius Jones, who was sentenced to death for the 1999 murder of a businessman in Oklahoma, and Linda Couch, who spent over 20 years in prison for a crime she did not commit.

One of the unique aspects of The Last Defense is its focus on the personal stories of those involved in these cases. Viewers are given an intimate look at the lives of the accused and their families as they navigate the complex legal system. The show also highlights the efforts of organizations like the Innocence Project, which work to free the wrongfully convicted.

Another standout feature of the series is the skillful way in which it raises important questions about the fairness of the criminal justice system. Each case presented in the show brings up issues such as police brutality, racial bias, and the reliability of eyewitness testimony. These themes are explored in depth, provoking important discussions about the ways in which the criminal justice system can be improved.

The Last Defense boasts a talented team of producers and directors, including Phillip-Charlie Daniell, Katusha Robert, and Skip Hollandsworth, who bring a wealth of experience to the project. These industry veterans are able to deftly weave together the various elements of each case, creating a compelling narrative that is both informative and emotionally moving.

Overall, The Last Defense is an excellent example of true-crime storytelling. Its focus on the personal stories of the accused and the legal battles that ensue make it a captivating watch. Moreover, its ability to unpack complex legal issues in an accessible way, while raising important questions about the fairness of the criminal justice system, make it a must-see for viewers who are interested in our nation's justice system.

The Last Defense is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between June 12, 2018 and on ABC