Unsolved Mysteries is facing criticism once again, with Netflix audiences expressing their disappointment over Season 5 Episode 2 and others for emphasizing supernatural themes.
Originally launched in 1987, the documentary series has always explored true crime stories along with conspiracy theories and unexplained paranormal events like ghosts and UFOs.
However, since its reboot on Netflix in 2020, the recent installments of Unsolved Mysteries have faced backlash.
One of the main criticisms is that the latest episodes were split into two volumes, with Season 4 containing only five episodes instead of the traditional nine.
Two episodes featured infamous cases—Jack the Ripper and the Mothman—which also upset fans.
“I was surprised not seeing a typical alien episode to skip, but now we have these instead,” commented one viewer on Reddit.
It seems the creators opted to focus on paranormal stories for Unsolved Mysteries Season 5, with only the premiere episode dedicated to a true crime case.
Episode 2, titled ‘My Paranormal Partner’, spotlights paranormal investigator Don Philips, who claims he can communicate with spirits, explore hauntings, and provide solace to those affected by ghostly encounters.
Philips’ unconventional approach led him to develop a peculiar relationship with an entity named Becky, who is said to communicate with him during both work and personal life.
While parapsychologist and skeptic Steve Mera initially doubted Philips’ claims, he eventually finds his perspective shifting after several tests.
However, doubts regarding Becky’s identity and her communications raise further questions.
Meanwhile, Episode 3 investigates a mysterious series of cattle mutilations, while the finale revisits the legendary Roswell UFO incident.
In a Reddit thread discussing Unsolved Mysteries Season 5, one viewer remarked, “It feels somewhat disrespectful to classify these ghost stories (Episode 2) on the same level as real unsolved murder cases.”
Another viewer agreed, saying, “Episode 1 is acceptable. But when only four episodes are available, and three are paranormal, come on. That stuff isn’t a mystery.”
Steve Mera wasn’t initially convinced by Don Philips
“I always enjoy a Roswell story, but it has been overdone, and I don’t believe it needed to be featured here. The Becky episode is complete nonsense,” said one viewer.
“I agree,” added another. “I decided to stop watching 10 minutes into the Becky episode. I’ve since moved on to Episode 3.”
Despite the criticisms, some defended the reboot of the series. “It’s not just ‘unsolved murders,’ it’s about ‘unsolved mysteries’. That’s what Cold Case Files is for,” commented one fan.
Another viewer suggested, “I mean… the original show also included quirky alien tales and similar content. This isn’t something new.”
However, one Redditor created another post expressing their dissatisfaction with the new chapters. “I loved the reboot of the first season. But it has significantly declined,” they explained.
“Volume 4 had two rather unremarkable cases that many didn’t enjoy. (To be honest, I didn’t dislike the Jack the Ripper case, but it was a rehash). Now, Volume 5 is disappointing. Four episodes, and three feel like throwaways to me.
“I never minded the original series having paranormal or alien cases – but those were brief segments. Allocating an entire hour to these paranormal subjects is simply a waste, and I don’t think I’ll continue watching. I’m so disappointed… this had so much potential.”
A second viewer replied, “I only care about the missing persons or murder cases. The paranormal and alien stories? I skip those.”
“I had incredibly high hopes, and as you mentioned, the first season was outstanding. So many cases I had never heard of before,” added another.
“Now we’re waiting YEARS between seasons and being presented with four or five episodes about well-known, high-profile events like Roswell and Jack The Ripper.”
Despite the ongoing disappointment, the first episode, ‘Park Bench Murders’, has generated significant discussion.
This episode explores the unsolved 2019 murders of Carnell Sledge and Katherine Brown, two friends who were tragically shot in the head from behind while they sat together on a bench at Cleveland Metroparks’ Rocky River Reservation.
Katherine Brown and Carnell Sledge were murdered in 2019
Despite occurring in broad daylight near a busy highway, there were no witnesses, and there were no indications of a robbery.
Series creator Terry Dunn Meurer told Netflix’s Tudum, “This double homicide is everyone’s worst nightmare. It unfolded in broad daylight at a busy public park.
“Law enforcement has yet to establish a motive for the murders and currently has no suspects. This case requires the assistance of viewers.”
Taking to Reddit, a viewer remarked, “Usually, this show allows for theorizing, but in this case, I’m quite puzzled.”
“The information provided did not allow for much speculation, as all potential suspects had verifiable alibis,” they added.
“This leads me to believe it may have been a hate crime or a completely random attack.”
Another viewer commented, “This closely resembles the true definition of a murder mystery.
“I truly sympathize with both families and the fact that the murderer has effectively put the families in conflict with one another (Nell’s family believing it was related to Kate and vice versa) just doesn’t feel right to me.”
For more updates on true crime, check out where the Menendez brothers are now, where Janel Grant is currently, and the true crime cases that the creators of Monster should investigate next.
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