Dateline NBC

10 Best Episodes of Dateline NBC - Season 26

Dateline NBC is an investigative journalism show that has been airing on NBC since 1992. The reporters for Dateline research their subjects and interview the people closely involved to create a comprehensive and informative work of journalism. With 30 seasons and over a quarter of a century of episodes, it can be hard to pick the best episodes. To help narrow down the list, we have ranked the top 5 Dateline NBC episodes.

The top 5 Dateline NBC episodes cover a wide variety of topics from crime stories to human interest stories. These episodes have been chosen for their compelling stories, intriguing investigations, and depth of coverage. From investigating a murder mystery with unexpected twists and turns to uncovering a complex fraud, these episodes are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.

If you're looking for the best Dateline NBC episodes, you've come to the right place. Read on to find out which episodes made the list and why they are considered the best of the best. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the show or just getting started, these episodes are sure to keep you entertained and informed.

Written by Sophie and last updated on feb 13, 2023.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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Dateline NBC - S26E3

#15 - At the Bottom of the Pool (Season 26 - Episode 3)

Dateline NBC's episode At the Bottom of the Pool tells the story of a model and YouTube celebrity who is found dead in a swimming pool. The police question her husband to try and find out what happened and Keith Morrison reports on the potential causes of her death.

At first, police are unable to determine the cause of death and the husband's alibi begins to unravel. As the investigation deepens, it becomes clear that the husband had a motive and the evidence points to him as the killer. The story takes a dramatic turn when it is revealed that the wife had been involved in a dangerous affair that had spiraled out of control, leading to her death.

At the Bottom of the Pool is a gripping and suspenseful episode, with Keith Morrison using his extensive experience to take viewers on a journey as he investigates the case and reveals the truth. This episode is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the mystery of what happened to the model and YouTube celebrity.

The episode was rated 6.97 from 36 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E29

#14 - Inside The Hunt For El Chapo (Season 26 - Episode 29)

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Dateline NBC's episode "Inside the Hunt for El Chapo" provides viewers with a behind-the-scenes look at the hunt for the infamous drug lord Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán. This episode, listed as 26x22 on Peacock, focuses on the international tracking of the drug lord, from the United States to Mexico, as law enforcement agencies conducted a multi-year manhunt.

The episode brings viewers on the hunt with the law enforcement agents, as they interviewed witnesses and interrogated suspects, eventually leading them to El Chapo's capture. Viewers will get an inside look at the investigation, featuring never before seen footage of El Chapo's arrest and the subsequent trial. The episode also includes interviews with law enforcement personnel who were involved in the investigation, providing insight into the complexities of the case.

The episode was rated 7.00 from 11 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E13

#13 - Under The Desert Sky - Update (Season 26 - Episode 13)

The 26th episode of Dateline NBC, Under the Desert Sky - Update, is an update on the original episode "Under the Desert Sky". It follows the story of a family who are struggling to survive in the desert of Arizona. The original episode focused on how the family was adapting to their new environment and how they were managing their resources to survive. This update looks at how the family has changed since the original episode and how they are faring in the desert.

The episode is listed as "Unspeakable" on Peacock, which may refer to the struggles of living in the desert. The family has had to make difficult decisions in order to survive and has had to face danger and hardships that are unheard of in other parts of the world. This episode will explore the changes that the family has faced since the original episode and how they have adapted to their new life in the desert. It will also shed light on the strength of the family and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The episode was rated 7.00 from 11 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E12

#12 - The Favorite Son (Season 26 - Episode 12)

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Dateline NBC's episode "The Favorite Son" is an intense and emotional story of a family feud that ends in tragedy. The episode follows the investigation into the murders of a small business owner and his bride, who were killed just a few months after their wedding. As the investigation unfolds, police become aware of a nasty family feud and its connection to the crime.

The episode follows as Josh Mankiewicz reports on the story, exploring the family's history and how it could have led to the murders. With interviews from family members and other witnesses, the episode paints a vivid picture of the events that lead to the tragedy. It is a captivating story of a family's struggle with its own demons and the devastating consequences that can follow.

The episode was rated 7.00 from 21 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E11

#11 - Poisoned (Season 26 - Episode 11)

The Dateline NBC episode "Poisoned" follows the mysterious death of a beloved chiropractor, who authorities later discovered had been poisoned. The documentary takes viewers on a journey to uncover the truth, as Andrea Canning reports on the case. The episode focuses on the investigation of the woman's death as authorities attempt to determine who is responsible and why.

The episode dives into the details of the investigation, as family and friends of the victim are interviewed. Viewers are taken through the case step-by-step as the evidence is collected and pieces of the puzzle are put together. From the initial discovery of the poisoning to the trial of the accused, the episode is a compelling look at how a death can go from a medical mystery to a criminal investigation.

The episode was rated 7.00 from 11 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E6

#10 - Secrets in Silver Lakes (Season 26 - Episode 6)

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Dateline NBC's episode, "Secrets in Silver Lakes," follows the murder of a young father and the investigation that reveals hidden truths of the small town he lived in. Josh Mankiewicz reports on the dark secrets that were previously unknown to the community, such as sex, religion, friendship, and family dynamics.

The investigation puts the small town of Silver Lakes on the spotlight as the details of the murder come to light. The episode follows the investigation as it peels away the layers of secrets that were never expected to be revealed. As each layer is peeled away, the secrets become more complex and the mystery of the murder deepens.

The episode is a thrilling look into the secrets of a small town, and the lengths the community will go to keep secrets hidden. The investigation reveals the secrets of the people of Silver Lakes and the truth of the murder. This episode is a must-watch for those who are interested in mysteries, investigations, and the power of secrets.

The episode was rated 7.09 from 32 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E56

#9 - Something Wicked (Season 26 - Episode 56)

The Dateline NBC episode Something Wicked is a gripping story about the disappearance of a group of children. The episode follows their families and law enforcement as they search for the missing kids. While the initial investigation reveals no leads, further digging reveals a sinister plot involving a mysterious figure.

The episode is filled with suspense and intrigue as the story unfolds. The tension builds as the investigation continues and the families of the missing children desperately wait for answers. As clues are uncovered, the mystery of what happened to the children deepens. The episode ultimately culminates with a shocking conclusion that leaves viewers with the question of what really happened to the children.

The episode was rated 7.10 from 10 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E14

#8 - Out There in the Dark (Season 26 - Episode 14)

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Dateline NBC’s “The Carrolton Plot - Update” episode explores a shocking murder case that took place in Carrolton, Georgia. The episode follows the investigation of a shocking crime that took place in the small town, and the twists and turns that followed. The episode, entitled “Out There in the Dark”, examines the case from all sides, from the victim’s family to the prosecutors and the defense, to the jury and the ultimate verdict.

The episode takes an in-depth look at the events leading up to the crime, as well as the evidence and testimony presented at trial. It also follows the investigation as it moves through the court system, from the jury’s deliberations to the ultimate verdict. The episode features interviews with those involved in the case, including the victim’s family, the prosecutors, the defense attorneys, and the jury, as well as the media coverage of the case. It also examines the implications of the verdict on the community and the country as a whole.

The episode was rated 7.17 from 23 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E16

#7 - Under The Prairie Sky - Update (Season 26 - Episode 16)

The episode ‘Under The Prairie Sky - Update’ of Dateline NBC is a follow up on the story of an unsolved Iowa murder from the small town of Fairbank. 26 years ago, a young woman, Cindy Hodge, was found murdered in a cornfield, leaving the townspeople shocked and scared. The episode updates the audience on the progress of the investigation and the efforts of the small-town police force to solve the case.

The episode is hosted by Dateline NBC anchor Lester Holt, who takes the audience on a journey through time to revisit the investigation. He interviews witnesses, law enforcement officials and members of the community, who recount the events of that fateful night. He delves into the theories and evidence that have been uncovered over the years and reveals the latest developments in the case. The episode is a powerful reminder of the tragedy and the resilience of a community that refuses to give up in its quest for justice.

The episode was rated 7.21 from 33 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E8

#6 - Black Friday (Season 26 - Episode 8)

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On a fateful Black Friday, Dateline NBC reported on a shocking murder in Fort Worth, Texas. Keith Morrison was on the scene to investigate the crime and uncover the truth behind the tragedy. The case was complex and had many twists and turns, but Morrison was able to uncover the facts of the case and present them in a compelling report.

The investigation revealed that the victim was an elderly woman who had been brutally attacked in her own home. Witnesses reported seeing a suspicious vehicle at the scene, but no suspects were ever identified. Through interviews and evidence, Morrison was able to piece together the story of what happened that day. He reported on the victim’s life and the circumstances that led to her death. He also spoke to those who knew her and shared their stories of a life cut short.

The episode was rated 7.25 from 24 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E2

#5 - Mystery on the Mississippi (Season 26 - Episode 2)

Dateline NBC's Mystery on the Mississippi tells the story of a mother of four who suddenly dies on Valentine’s Day. Everyone in town assumed that the woman had died of natural causes, until a detective began to suspect that someone had gotten away with murder. Dennis Murphy reports on the investigation and its findings.

The episode follows the investigation as it unfolds, from the initial suspicion of foul play to the search for evidence that a crime has been committed. As the detective delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a web of lies and deceit that put the entire town on edge. Along the way, Murphy interviews friends, family, and other community members to uncover the truth. In the end, the investigation reveals a shocking truth that no one could have predicted.

The episode was rated 7.26 from 43 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E15

#4 - Before Dawn - Update (Season 26 - Episode 15)

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Dateline NBC's episode Before Dawn - Update is an update on a story originally featured in the episode "Before Dawn". This episode was originally aired on Peacock under the title of "The Farm". Before Dawn - Update follows the story of a group of people living in a commune in rural Nebraska in the 1970s. This episode focuses on the lives of the people in the commune and the struggles they faced while living there.

The episode follows the stories of several people living in the commune and their experiences. From the beginning of the episode, viewers are shown the difficulties the commune members faced in the rural Nebraska environment. They were subjected to food shortages and had to learn to fend for themselves in the harsh conditions. In addition, the commune was not well-received by the local community and was often the target of criticism and suspicion.

The update of the episode focuses on how the people of the commune have fared since the original airing of Before Dawn. We are shown how some of the people have gone on to build successful lives and careers, while others still struggle with the effects of their time living in the commune. The episode reveals the lasting impact of their time living in the commune and how it has shaped their lives today.

Before Dawn - Update is a powerful episode that offers viewers a glimpse into the lives of the people of the commune and the struggles they faced. Through this episode, viewers can learn more about the lives of the people living in the commune and gain a better understanding of the difficulties they faced.

The episode was rated 7.36 from 22 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E1

#3 - Scorned (Season 26 - Episode 1)

Dateline NBC's episode, "Scorned," tells the story of a tragic love triangle gone terribly wrong. Keith Morrison reports on a situation that escalated from a simple disagreement to years of stalking, destruction of property, and ultimately, murder.

This story is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly a conflict can spiral out of control. In this case, a disagreement between two men over a woman led to a long-term feud and ultimately, one man's life taken by the other. What began as a simple disagreement between friends quickly turned into a series of escalating events, and before anyone knew it, the situation had taken a deadly turn.

The episode was rated 7.37 from 59 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E5

#2 - The Halloween Party (Season 26 - Episode 5)

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When a young woman mysteriously disappears from a Halloween party, the town is thrown into a panic. Family and friends of the missing woman launch a desperate search, canvassing the area and scouring for any clues that may lead to her whereabouts. Dateline NBC investigates this gripping case, sending Keith Morrison to report on the story. With a town in disarray, the detectives are tasked with the difficult job of sifting through the clues and evidence to find the truth behind the mysterious disappearance.

The episode follows the detectives as they interview partygoers and examine the evidence for any potential leads. Morrison also speaks to the family of the missing woman, providing an emotional and heartbreaking look at the impact of her disappearance. As the investigation continues, the detectives and the townspeople are left with many unanswered questions, and the episode ends with no resolution. Dateline NBC brings viewers an in-depth look at this captivating story, providing an understanding of the complexity of the case and the struggles of the people involved.

The episode was rated 7.50 from 30 votes.

Dateline NBC - S26E9

#1 - Unthinkable: The Menendez Murders (Season 26 - Episode 9)

Dateline NBC’s episode, “Unthinkable: The Menendez Murders” covers the story of the Menendez brothers, who were convicted of murdering their parents in Beverly Hills over two decades ago. Keith Morrison reports on the details of this case and examines the evidence that eventually led to the brothers’ conviction.

The episode focuses on the events leading up to the murders, the trial that followed, and the long-term effects of the case. It also explores the psychological aspects of the case, such as the brothers’ possible motives for the crime. As the episode progresses, Morrison interviews people close to the case, such as lawyers, family members, and witnesses, in order to gain a better understanding of what happened. The episode culminates in a comprehensive look at the event and its consequences.

“Unthinkable: The Menendez Murders” is an intriguing and thought-provoking episode that provides viewers with an in-depth look at the case and its implications. Morrison’s extensive reporting and research on the matter offers viewers a unique perspective on the case and its aftermath. This episode is a must-see for anyone interested in true crime and its effects on the people involved.

The episode was rated 7.53 from 19 votes.

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