Crime Stories Take Center Stage at SXSW Summit

Variety is launching its first True Crime Summit during the SXSW festival, with Investigation Discovery as the main sponsor. The event will bring together leading voices from film, TV and podcasting to discuss why audiences worldwide keep turning to stories of mystery, justice and deception. The day starts with a keynote where Nancy Grace talks about how crime coverage has changed, the duty of reporting real cases, and why people stay hooked on justice. Grace’s conversation with Variety’s co‑president Dea Lawrence highlights the importance of linking fans directly to creators and experts in this growing field. A session on “Docbuster” shows how Investigation Discovery is reshaping documentary crime with urgent, empathetic storytelling. Producers from popular titles such as “Quiet on Set” and “The Fall of Diddy” explain how they keep the voices of those affected front‑and‑center. In “Masters of Investigative Reporting, ” industry leaders from The Wall Street Journal, BuzzFeed Studios and TV shows like “48 Hours” discuss how to turn real events into compelling narratives. They also talk about working with law enforcement, gathering public tips and turning facts into drama that resonates.The summit explores the rise of digital‑first crime stories through a chat with John Allen, creator of “MrBallen’s Strange, Dark and Mysterious Stories. ” He shares how online platforms help captivate audiences worldwide. Technology’s role in crime prevention is examined by SimpliSafe’s chief product officer, who explains how new tools can protect families before a crime even happens. A panel on the booming business of true crime looks at strategies for standing out in a crowded market. Speakers from Sony Music, Audible and other media giants discuss expanding global reach and keeping momentum alive. Listeners get an inside look at “The Red Weather, ” a podcast that mixes personal memoir with fictional mystery. The host explains the creative risks of blending fact and fiction to keep listeners engaged. The summit wraps up with a discussion on the most popular true crime TV shows, where producers talk about choosing cases, respecting victims’ families and crafting stories that keep viewers coming back. Jason Sarlanis of Investigation Discovery praised the summit as a chance to showcase how thoughtful, powerful storytelling can spark important cultural conversations.