OUR RATING:
“Morbid,” hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh “Ash” Kelley, represents both the potential and pitfalls of the true crime podcast genre. The show, which launched in 2018, has grown from a modest beginning into one of the most popular true crime podcasts, driven by the hosts’ natural chemistry and their ability to blend dark subject matter with moments of levity. As a practicing autopsy technician, Urquhart brings valuable medical expertise to their discussions, while Kelley’s background as a hairdresser offers a refreshing everyman perspective that helps ground their conversations.
To say that Morbid has become a massive hit, is an understatement. The show is regularly featured in lists of the best true crime shows, and is one of Wondery’s flagship podcasts.
The podcast’s strength lies in its thorough research and attention to detail. Episodes often feature extensive historical context, forensic analysis, and psychological insights that help listeners understand not just the what, but the why behind various criminal cases. The hosts’ commitment to presenting comprehensive narratives is evident in their multi-part episodes, which can span several hours and multiple installations to fully explore complex cases.
However, this thoroughness occasionally becomes a bit of a slog. Some episodes suffer from tangential discussions and personal asides that, while entertaining to dedicated fans, can detract from the narrative flow and potentially frustrate listeners seeking a more focused true crime experience. The hosts’ casual banter, while generally endearing, sometimes risks trivializing the gravity of the cases they discuss.
The show’s production quality has notably improved over the years, with better audio engineering and more polished presentation. The addition of listener tales and supernatural episodes has helped diversify their content beyond pure true crime, though these episodes can be hit-or-miss depending on one’s interest in paranormal subject matter.
One of “Morbid’s” most commendable aspects is its conscious effort to center victims’ stories and show respect for their memories. The hosts frequently emphasize the importance of remembering the victims as people rather than just cases, and they make a point of discussing victims’ lives, dreams, and the impact their losses had on their communities. This approach helps humanize their subjects and sets “Morbid” apart from more sensationalistic true crime content.
Critics have rightfully pointed out that the show occasionally stumbles in its handling of sensitive topics, particularly in earlier episodes. The hosts’ commentary can sometimes veer into judgment or speculation that, while well-intentioned, might be considered inappropriate given the serious nature of the cases. However, they have shown growth in this area, demonstrating increased awareness and sensitivity in more recent episodes.
The podcast’s massive success has led to various spin-off projects and a dedicated fan community, but it has also attracted criticism for its monetization strategies and handling of certain cases. While some of these criticisms merit consideration, “Morbid” remains one of the more thoughtful entries in the true crime genre, balancing entertainment value with genuine respect for the subject matter.
Where to listen to Morbid
Pod.link | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Overcast | Pocket Casts | Castro
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