Please bookmark this page as we celebrate and list what is deemed the Best Documentary Series on Netflix of 2023.
The reason why the majority of audiences enjoy watching docuseries is that they’re more realistic. These stories are grounded in real-life events that become more intriguing than re-enactments or actors ever could. They aren’t overly dramatized, but they do create an impact. The documentary series on this list are the best on Netflix in 2023. By using IMDb and its rating scale, the series below are listed from lowest to highest to give the most accurate score. For a broader list, check out our Best Documentary series on Netflix Of All Time list.
Best Documentary Series on Netflix in 2023
10. Gunther’s Millions
Multi-millionaire Gunther VI lives in the lap of luxury: he travels on private planes, eats gold-flaked steaks for dinner, and surrounds himself with a glamorous entourage of spokesmodels and entertainers. In case you didn’t know, Gunther VI is a dog who inherited his owner’s riches.
Official Premise: As the legend goes, Gunther’s great-grandfather was originally owned by a mysterious countess whose son died tragically. Having no heirs, the countess bequeathed her considerable fortune to her beloved dog. She placed him in the care of her son’s close friend, an Italian pharmaceutical heir and aspiring impresario named Maurizio Mian.
Starring: Maurizio Mian, Ed Arenas
Rating: 5.6
9. Unknown: Killer Robots
Technology can always be considered a good thing, but once the technology becomes too advanced, it can get out of our control.
Official Premise: Follows the terrifying behind-the-scenes of military-funded scientists racing to build this technology as Artificial Intelligence infiltrates every level of the armed forces.
Cast: Nick Bilton, Max Tegmark, Michael Subhan, Emilia Javorsky, Andrew Yang
IMDB rating: 6.4
8. Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal
The Murdaughs were one of South Carolina’s most prominent families, but the death of teenager Mallory Beach in a drunken boating accident began unraveling their legacy. All it takes is one moment for things to change drastically, and this series explores in detail what the family allegedly did one night.
Official Premise: The three-part series will feature first-hand accounts from those on the boat that fateful night, many of whom have not spoken about the crash or double homicide of Maggie and Paul until now.
Starring: Morgan Doughty, Miley Altman, Connor Cook, and Anthony Cook
Rating: 7.1
7. Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street
This series reveals the truth behind Bernie Madoff’s infamous $64 billion global Ponzi scheme, the largest in history, that shattered the lives of countless individual investors who had placed their trust in the revered Wall Street statesman.
Official Premise: This docuseries has unique access to whistleblowers, employees, investigators, victims, and never-before-seen video depositions of Madoff himself. This four-part documentary series traces Madoff’s rise from humble beginnings to one of Wall Street’s most influential power brokers.
Starring: Bernie Madoff, Elijah George, Joseph Scotto, Donna Pastorelllo
Rating: 7.3
6. Wham!
The duo of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley was something special. The two of them owned the 80s and made some incredible songs that end up staying in anyone’s head.
Official Premise: Through archival interviews and footage, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley relive the arc of their Wham career, from ‘70s best buds to ‘80s pop icons.
Cast: Bananarama, Bono, David Bowie, Boy George, George Michael, Andrew Ridgeley, Phil Collins, Aretha Franklin
IMDB rating: 7.5
5. Running for the Truth: Alex Schwazer
This docuseries explores the rollercoaster of a life Schwazer had trying to fix one mistake. It’s hard to see a professional athlete love the sport so much and he’s unable to be part of it. It shows his determination to get his career back on track, even though the system was working against him.
Official Premise: After being banned for doping, gold medalist Alex Schwazer enlists one of the accusers to help him mount a comeback in time for the Tokyo Olympics.
Starring: Alex Schwazer, Kathrin Freund, Michael C. Pizzuto
Rating: 7.6
4. The Deepest Breath (2023)
The ocean is a deep, dark place, and many don’t realize the secrets that are still kept under the sea. It’s filled with many treasures that people don’t even know. Explorers are still uncovering things from thousands of years ago.
Official Premise: A champion and expert safety diver seemed destined for one another. Despite different paths taken they meet at the pinnacle of the free-diving world, experiencing the thrilling rewards and inescapable risks of chasing dreams through the depths of the ocean.
Cast: David Attenborough, Leigh Baker, Mahmoud Barracuda, Illaria Bonin
IMDB rating: 7.8
3. Bill Russell: Legend
This was Bill Russell’s last interview before his passing in 2022. This is the definitive telling of his life and legacy as an NBA superstar and civil rights icon. If you thought you knew who he was before watching this documentary series, this would change for you after they go into detail about his life.
Official Premise: The remarkable life and legacy of an NBA superstar and civil rights icon is captured in this documentary. This two-part film from award-winning director Sam Pollard features Bill’s last interview before his passing in 2022.
Starring: Larry Bird, Satch Sanders, Bill Walton, Jeannine Russell
Rating: 8.0
2. Tour De France: Unchained
It’s interesting to see how strenuous the Tour de France is. Not many people take cycling seriously, so this docuseries explores everything people put into it. The Tour de France is the biggest challenge and is watched all over the world.
Official Premise: It is a documentary on the journey of eight teams taking part in the world’s most challenging Tour de France bike race.
Starring: Christian Prudhomme, Steve Chainel, Patrick Lefevere
Rating: 8.3
1. Formula 1: Drive to Survive Season 5
This new season will take fans behind the scenes to witness first-hand how the drivers and teams prepare to battle it out for the 2022 FIA Formula 1 World Championship.
Official Premise: This series will offer never-before-seen footage and interviews from the sport’s biggest names. Like the first season, this will give fans exclusive behind-the-scenes footage that will provide them with all the details they need about Formula 1.
Starring: Will Buxton, Lewis Hamilton, Daniel Ricciardo, Jack Nichols
Rating: 8.6
And that completes our list of Best Documentary Series on Netflix in 20233. We’ll keep this list updated throughout the year.
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