Everything To Know About "American Nightmare," Netflix's New True Crime Documentary

American Nightmare on netflix

New true crime documentary, American Nightmare, is the #1 TV show on Netflix right now, having garnered 21.4 million views just this week. It follows the true story of Denise Huskin's unusual kidnapping that happened back in 2015, and the subsequent mishandling of her legal case.

At the time, many people – including police investigators – compared what happened to her to Gillian Flynn's fictional mystery novel, Gone Girl(which was released the year prior), and of course, the adapted film starring Rosamund Pike and Ben Affleck.

Here's everything to know about American Nightmare, whether you've started it or have yet to press 'play.' It's thrilling and chilling, so get ready to lock in!

Is American Nightmare a real documentary?

Yes, American Nightmare is a real documentary. It's formatted as a docuseries that tells the disturbing but true story of Denise Huskin and her boyfriend, Aaron Quinn, who were drugged by intruders in their own home before Denise was abducted for ransom in 2015. It features re-enactments of the original story as well as accounts from the persons involved.

What is American Nightmare about?

American Nightmare uncovers the truth behind Denise Huskin and Aaron Quinn's strange kidnapping case.

When Aaron initially went to authorities for help with Denise's disappearance, they wrongly assumed that he was at fault. When she returned home safely a few days later, the police raised even further suspicion that the whole situation was a hoax schemed by the couple (a la the plot of Gone Girl), falsely accusing them.

Both Denise and Aaron are a part of the American Nightmare TV series, offering a real behind-the-scenes perspective to come clean about what really happened.

Is American Nightmare based on Gone Girl?

No, American Nightmare is not based on Gone Girl, though at the time, legal authorities, the media, and many in the general public distastefully compared the real case to the Gone Girl book and film.

While Rosamund Pike's character in Gone Girl wittily framed her husband for her murder by lying about her kidnapping, Denise Huskin was telling the full truth about hers. The police just didn't believe her.

Where can I stream American Nightmare?

"American Nightmare" is available to stream on Netflix now. The title was added to the platform on January 17, 2024.

How many episodes of American Nightmare are there?

American Nightmare is a three-part series. The total runtime of the series is 2 hours and 15 minutes, so it won't take very long to watch.

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Images via Netflix.

Who can forget days spent lounging on our grandparents' sofas while they watched one of their preferred 'old-school' TV shows? If they weren't tuned into The Price Is Right or Wheel of Fortune, they were probably watching I Love Lucy or Gilligan's Island. We may have complained at first...until we realized how kooky and fun these series were. Where else were we going to get slapstick comedy in black and white?

Since we hardly see rerun episodes of these timeless classics anymore, we're celebrating them by remembering why we loved them so much — and letting you know where you can stream them right now!

Here are all the old school TV shows we miss seeing on our screens!

Apple TV+

1. I Love Lucy

Stream: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Paramount+
We thought we'd gladly be housewives if it meant we got to be gorgeous and witty like Lucy Ricardo (Lucille Ball). Together with her on-screen husband Ricky Ricardo (eventual off-screen ex-husband Desi Arnez), she showed that housewives could find things to do besides maintaining a home.
She and her neighbor/best friend Ethel Mertz would often find themselves in hilarious situations that were reprimanded by their Ricky as well as Ethel's husband, Fred Mertz (William Frawley). Remember the episode Lucy and Ethel tried working at a chocolate factory? We vowed never to think we had what it takes to be on anyone's assembly line after watching it.

Amazon Prime Video

2. The Brady Bunch

Stream: Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+

The Brady Bunch took having a stepfamily and turned it on its head with the blended Brady family. Because of their love for each other, Mike and Carol happily took on each other's children as their own: Greg, Marcia, Jan, Peter, Bobby, and Cindy. There was also the housekeeper Alice and the the lovable dog, Tiger!

Each episode seemed to revolve around getting used to living together, sibling rivalry, and more adventures that often ended in valuable lessons. Despite their differences, the Bradys showed that families don't have to be perfect to have a lot of love.

Amazon Prime Video

3. The Andy Griffith Show

Stream: Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, Paramount+
Andy Griffith was America's favorite sheriff and father because he seemed to know just what to say or do in different situations. Goofily assisted by deputy Barney Fife, he worked to balance solving petty crimes with raising his young son, Opie. Also, we can't forget the warmth and wit Aunt Bee brought to the show!

Apple TV+

4. Gilligan's Island

Stream: Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video
Before Lost, many of us remember watching Gilligan's Island with our grandparents. Our favorite part of theme song is, "The ship set ground on the shore of this uncharted desert isle with Gilligan, the Skipper too, the millionaire and his wife, the movie star, the professor and Mary Ann. Here on Gilligan's Isle!"
There were so many different personalities that we could always count on something silly to happen.

Roku

5. I Dream of Jeannie

Stream: Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video
This is a hot take, but I Dream of Jeannie was a little cringe even back then. But, we still loved watching Jeannie make an incredible mark in Captain Tony Nelson's life. We're not saying we agreed with her sneaking into his bag or breaking off his initial engagement, but she sure knew how to cause a scene.
Maybe this is why we love watching reality TV drama 👀.

Amazon Prime Video

6. Leave It to Beaver

Stream: Amazon Prime Video
Leave It to Beaver felt appropriate for us to watch because it was all about young Theodore "Beaver" Cleaver's mischievous adventurous with his friends and the silly sibling rivalry that took place with his older brother Wallace aka Wally. It spoke to the accuracy of growing up as a kid who has an active imagination and too much time on their hands, no different than when some of us were kids.

Peacock

7. The Dick Van Dyke Show

Stream: Peacock, Amazon Prime Video
The Dick Van Dyke Show gave us an imagined look at the production of a TV show where Rob Petrie was the star. Somehow he'd try to split time between his career and personal life, often with funny results. Set in New York, it gave us a taste of having a budding creative career and family, not unlike what some of us having today.

Amazon Prime Video

8. Bewitched

Stream: Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video
Aside from Lucy and Ricky, our favorite TV couple used to be Samantha and Darrin from Bewitched. Despite their love for each other, it's obvious they have hiccups to navigate in their marriage. Darrin wants Samantha fit into suburbia while her family could care less about her changing who she is. With a twitch of her nose, Samantha could deploy a spell in no time...even if Darrin didn't always approve.

Peacock

9. The Munsters

Stream: Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock
The Munsters is another classic TV show that seemed to poke fun at living life in the suburbs. Unlike The Addams Family, the Munsters did their best to assimilate into their neighborhood as much as possible. Despite the glaring fact their family's comprised of vampires, Frankenstein, and an unseen pet, it was a touching show that placed a huge value on a family's love for each other.

Apple TV+

9. The A-Team

Stream: Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video
Did we really watch old school TV show reruns if they didn't include one episode of The A-Team? It's the prime reason we randomly say, "I pity the fool," in the voice of Mr. T. Aside from that, Faceman, Hannibal, and Murdock helped round out the team with their various expertise from being in the Special Forces. We saw them go on various 'missions' that usually involved fight scenes, explosives, and risky getaways.
It was a departure from some of the other shows we watched, but there was something exciting about seeing them find outlandish ways to escape narrow moments.

Hulu

11. M*A*S*H

Stream: Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu

Some of us have family members who served in the different branches of the military so watching M*A*S*H helped us make sense of some things that may have happened BTS. Specifically focusing on the 'hospital' portion of the war, M*A*S*H. Though there were some funny moments, but the show also did a great job of showing how scary the war could be.

It was expertly produced in our opinion and continues to be one of the shows we miss watching.

Peacock

12. The Beverly Hillbillies

Stream: Amazon Prime Video, Peacock
Last, but not least, The Beverly Hillbillies routinely takes up space in our brains. There was something funny yet endearing about seeing Jed, Elly May, Jethro, and Granny pack up their lives in the country to move to the glamorous California. The Clampetts may not have been posh like their neighbors, but they made sure there was never a dull moment when they were on TV.

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Amid the tragedy of the LA fires, neighbors are opening their homes to one another. In addition to AirBnb offering temporary housing and various YMCAs and Red Cross locations opening their doors, victims are finding safety with friends and family — and that includes your favorite celebrities. Like Hilary Duff and husband Matthew Koma, who opened their home to Mandy Moore, Taylor Goldsmith, and their family.

Here's what Mandy Moore and Griffin Goldsmith have said about Hilary Duff and Matthew Koma — and the LA wildfires.

Despite losing everything, Griffin is touched by Hilary Duff & Matthew Koma.

After Mandy Moore and Taylor Goldsmith's home was affected by the wildfires in Altadena (they lost their garage, music studio, and back house), Mandy's brother-in-law Griffin Goldsmith revealed the family had been taken in by Hilary Duff.

"All of this so overwhelming," he said on Instagram. "Our dear friends @matthewkoma and @hilaryduff thought it wise to set up a gofundme for us to help with everything moving forward. Not to mention they are currently housing my brother’s family. They’ve taken care of my entire family from the moment this began. I will never be able to thank them adequately. This is the kindest act any human could do for another. They are the most beautiful, selfless people we’ve ever known."

"I’ve never been so moved in my life," he continues. "We are completely blown away. I can’t talk or think about it without crying. Like I said there aren’t words to describe how I feel. I’m doing my best. You all have completely changed what the picture of our future in Los Angeles looks like."

Mandy Moore shared the GoFundMe for Griffin and Kit on Instagram, writing in a since-deleted post that the couple "lost their home and everything they own in the Eaton Fire."

"With their first baby on the way in a matter of weeks, they need our support now more than ever," Mandy says (via People). "Griff is a touring musician and also lost his entire arsenal of drums/percussion he uses to make a living. It’s all so much. So many have asked how to help during this unimaginable and stressful time … Please consider donating and sharing to help them rebuild."

And when people criticized her decision to share the GoFundMe link? "Kindly F OFF."

"People questioning whether we’re helping out our own family or attributing some arbitrary amount of money Google says someone has is NOT helpful or empathetic," she continues. "Of course we are. Our buddy Matt started this GoFundMe and i’m sharing because people have asked how they can help them. We just lost most of our life in a fire too."

And the main part of Mandy Moore's home is still "mostly intact."

The Princess Diaries actress shared photos from her family's property, revealing that the main part of their home is still standing. "It’s not livable but mostly intact," she said on Instagram January 10. "We lost Taylor and griffin’s studio with every instrument and piece of equipment they’ve ever owned. We lost our garage and back house. Everyone we know lost everything. Every house on our street is gone. My in laws. My brother and sister in law- 6 weeks from welcoming their first baby. Our best friends. Feeling weird survivors guilt. We love this community and will do everything we can to help rebuild and support. Thanks for everyone for checking on us and offering us help. Altadena strong."

Resources and more information on the LA fires can be found here.

Viewers who were ready to watch Meghan Markle's new Netflix showWith Love, Meghan January 15 will have to wait just a little bit longer. Meghan decided to delay the show in the midst of the L.A. wildfire crisis, focusing on being more of a good samaritan and placing her focus on the cataphoric fires that have demolished parts of L.A. Here's what to know about the delayed release of With Love, Meghan — plus, Meghan's efforts to provide L.A. wildfire relief!

Scroll to find out everything you need to know about Meghan Markle's With Love, Meghan release date!

When is the new premiere date of 'With Love, Meghan?'

According to Netflix, With Love, Meghan will now premiere March 4.

What has Meghan Markle said about delaying her show?

We're sure Meghan Markle was excited to share her love for cooking and living in California, but the Duchess is more concerned about the tragedy occurring in L.A. She said, "I’m thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch, as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California," via Netflix.

What have critics said about 'With Love, Meghan?'

Meghan's decision and comment about it come on the heels of some people expressing their dislike for the show. Just last week, Meghan McCain shared her own thoughts about With Love, Meghan.

In a rather length X post, she started by saying, "I was originally a Meghan Markle supporter, I thought she was cool, stylish and refreshing." Her tone quickly changed because she believes Markle not only "disrespected the royal family," but McCain also believes Markle "wants to be American again instead of British aristocracy."

She called the trailer for With Love, Meghan "highly curated, produced, and out of touch" because of the "2 terror attacks in 2 days, major wars raging" and the fact people are facing high grocery prices. As if that weren't enough, McCain decided to throw in, "This is why the world doesn’t like you, nothing else. Just completely and utterly tone deaf to the moment" which feels more based on an emotional opinion than fact.

While this criticism came before the terrible L.A. fires struck, it's in line with a lot of criticism Meghan's faced since. However, PEOPLEspoke with an "industry insider" about why they feel Meghan Markle truly decided to delay With Love, Meghan. "Delaying the release of With Love, Meghan was likely an easy decision for her. I don’t think she could imagine putting out a show centered on joy and hosting when so many people in her home state no longer have homes to host people in," the source said.

They also touched on the continued criticism the Duchess is once again facing for her decision not to premiere her show right now. "I think it’s sad that critics are saying she’s only doing this to avoid the fires overshadowing her show. We’re all human, and we’re dealing with a catastrophe."

How have Meghan Markle and Prince Harry been helping those affected by the L.A. fires? 

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are doing their best to help those who have been displaced by the L.A. fires. They've since made their California home a safe haven for those who have been displaced and have been actively assisting in other ways.

For one, they showed up at the World Central Kitchen in Pasadena, California to "help distribute food and supplies to victims of the Eaton fire" last Friday, January 10 (via PEOPLE). At the time, Mayor Victor Gordo said the couple cared about being "as helpful as they can be" and that "they took the time to meet the people that are affected."

They've also listed resources for those who are inspired to help victims as well on their official Sussex site.

We commend Meghan Markle for doing everything she can to assist with L.A. wildfire relief, and TBH we think that's what others should be focused on instead of critiquing her every move.

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Kitchen renovations are no joke – they're a major investment, so you’ll want to think twice before committing to fleeting trends — especially for big-ticket items like cabinets, countertops, and appliances. I’ll admit it: I’m still without a backsplash five years later because I can’t commit! While it’s perfectly fine to follow your heart if you love a particular look, kitchens can quickly feel outdated when you lean too heavily on short-lived fads. To help you create a timeless, stylish space, we’ve rounded up outdated kitchen trends to avoid — and easy ways to modernize if your kitchen is stuck in the past.

Scroll to see if you have these outdated kitchen trends in your house right now!

Mark McCammon

1. All-White Kitchens

The all-white kitchen craze has officially run its course, often feeling cold and sterile — like say a doctor’s office. Today’s kitchens are all about warmth and character, with palettes in soft neutrals, earthy greens, or bold, moody shades like oxblood and midnight blue. Choose a color that speaks to you for a timeless, inviting space you'll love for years to come.

Pixabay

2. Granite Countertops

This early 2000s trend has been overdone and feels so dated now. Marble, sleek quartz, even butcher block are more classic choices.

Curtis Adams

3. Ornate Cabinetry

The color and detail of this traditional kitchen feels drab and dated. Instead, look for flat-panel or Shaker-style cabinets with clean, minimal lines.

Terry Magallanes

4. Farmhouse Decor

This kitchen is a lesson is don'ts. The grey vinyl flooring (especially hideous!), farmhouse stools, and white cabinetry hail from a decades-old trend that needs to disappear in 2025.

Home Depot

5. Glass Mosaic Tiles

Glass mosaics, popular in the 2000s and 2010s, tend to lean toward a transitional aesthetic, which is the opposite of an organic, minimalist, or vintage-inspired design kitchen are craving now. The grout lines are bit difficult to clean too between all the tiny tiles. Zellige tile or a slab of marble are a more sophisticated look for today's kitchens.

Level 23 Media

6. Black & White

The stark contrast between black and white can come across as harsh and overly dramatic, a look that peaked in the 2010s. The farmhouse sign doesn't help warm it up either. Soften the look with earthy, natural tones.

Curtis Adams

7. Subway Tile

Subway tile is classic, so there’s no need to rip it out if it still brings you joy. However, the white subway tile paired with dark grout has overstayed its welcome. This overdone trend became so ubiquitous that it lost its charm and individuality, leaving kitchens looking more cookie-cutter than full of character.

Amazon

8. Industrial Lighting

This nod to the past needs to, sorry, stay in the past. Look for organic, natural forms and lighting that reflects your kitchen's unique aesthetic.

Shutterstock

9. Tuscan Style

This rustic kitchen feels dated with its heavy, ornate features like dark wood cabinetry and trim. Go for clean, brighter spaces.

Shutterstock

10. Tile Countertops

Natural stone, marble, and wood are trending for 2025. Grout-filled countertops like this one are not. Time to go!

Max Vakhtbovycn

11. Moroccan Mosaic Tile

Kitchens are becoming elegant places to cook, eat, and gather. This busy design can look cheap. The white mid-century Eames-style chairs, sorry to say, are also out.

Andrea Davis

12. Barn Doors

Using barn doors between the kitchen and other spaces is a look that is officially out. They proved to be not that functional and the look is now dated and too kitschy. Buh bye!

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Every January, I commit to a Whole30 month and throughout the year follow the low-carb program for a week or even a day. This year, 2025, I'm going to try to adhere to a low-carb diet all year long. My body just doesn't react well to carbs and it's generally a healthier way to live. I recently tried True Story's Whole30 Approved Bundle, which has been a great starter kit to get back in the swing of a low-carb routine, especially at lunchtime when I don't have time to cook from scratch.

Now there are tons of Whole30 recipes that you can enjoy without breaking the rules. The creativity of these dinner recipes make you feel like you're not giving up on dairy, grains, sweets or fun, but instead are venturing into a style of cooking that's healthy and *delicious.* Enjoy the adventure and experiment with these versatile mains that you can add to your monthly cooking routine.

Easy Paleo Chili Recipe

Make this easy Whole30-compliant dish that's full of healthy veggies (no beans!) and so simple to make. (via The Endless Meal)

Meatballs Without Breadcrumbs

For an easy dinner, try these meatballs without breadcrumbs made from ground beef or pork. Just add a veggie and your favorite sauce! (via Where Is My Spoon)

Sweet Potato Toasts

Sweet potatoes are low in calorie and high in fiber and a good swap for your toasty cravings. There are endless topping combos to turn them into a delicious and savory meal. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Sheet Pan Chicken And Asparagus

This Sheet Pan Chicken and Asparagus recipe is Whole30 approved and ready in less than 30 minutes! (via The Girl On Bloor)

Creamy Chicken Mushroom

Serve over cauliflower rice or spaghetti squash, this Creamy Chicken Mushroom recipe is made with garlic chicken thighs and a delicious mushroom sauce that's made creamy with healthy cashew butter. (via The Endless Meal)

Chicken Artichoke

This chicken smothered in a creamy spinach and artichoke cream sauce is Whole30-compliant and so delicious! (via Clean Cuisine)

Whole30 Chicken Zoodle Soup

Whole30 Chicken Zoodle Soup

If you’re looking for a soul-soothing dish that’s still diet-friendly, you’ve come to the right recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Whole30 Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Hearty comfort food isn’t always compliant with the latest food trends, but this loaded baked potato soup just happens to be Whole30 approved. (via Brit + Co)

Whole30 Animal Style Burgers

Whole30 Animal Style Burgers

Crunchy lettuce leaves replace traditional buns to make burgers that are Whole30 compliant. You’ll be able to stop your drive-thru dreams after just one bite. (via Brit + Co)

Chicken, Pesto, and Sun-Dried Tomato Egg Pizza

Instead of a wheat crust, this pizza is made on a high-protein egg base. A creamy pesto made with pine nuts and cashews will make you forget all about cheese. (via The Whole Smith’s Good Food Cookbook, photo via Michelle Smith)

Whole 30 Salmon Avocado Salad

The most unexpected bite in this salmon salad comes not from creamy avocado, but rather from bright bursts of tangy grapefruit that liven up the entire dish. (via The Whole Smith’s Good Food Cookbook, photo via Michelle Smith)

Whole30 Broccoli Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes

Thank goodness white potatoes aren’t off-limits with Whole30. Turn them into an entire, satisfying meal by stuffing them with broccoli, chicken, fresh herbs, and spices. (via The Whole Smith’s Good Food Cookbook, photo via Michelle Smith)

Whole30 Chicken, Lime, and Avocado Soup

Don’t forget the avocado. It adds a cooling, creamy effect to your bowl. (via The Whole30 Slow Cooker, photo via Ghazalle Badiozamani)

Whole30 Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore

This Whole30-compliant chicken cacciatore is comfort food at its best, made by swapping zucchini noodles for pasta. (via The Whole30 Slow Cooker, photo via Ghazalle Badiozamani)

Whole30 Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken

Make this sesame chicken at home in your Instant Pot so you don’t give in to your take-out cravings. (via The Whole30 Slow Cooker, photo via Ghazalle Badiozamani)

Taco Salad Bowl + Sautéed Plantains

Dig into this hearty salad served with sautéed plantains and a homemade Whole30-compliant taco seasoning for a totally satisfying dinner. (via The Real Food Dieticians)

Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Egg Boat

Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Egg Boat

Roasted sweet potatoes, eggs, and the toppings of your choice (bacon and avocado, for example) create a hearty base for your day. (via Brit + Co)

Hashbrown Egg Cups

Sometimes nothing hits the spot like a cozy hashbrown egg cup. Opt for only shredded sweet potatoes in this dish to keep it compliant. (via Siriously Deliciousby Siri Daly / Time Inc., Books)

Sheet-Pan Shrimp Fajitas

Tangy, spicy sheet-pan shrimp fajitas can be wrapped in lettuce taco “shells.” (via Brit + Co)

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

This Greek-inspired whole chicken cooks fast and tasty in an air fryer. Add roasted potatoes for a complete meal! (via Vikalinka)

Green Egg Shakshuka

If you’re not famished after work, treat yourself to a pan of mixed greens topped with baked eggs. (via Brit + Co)

Spring Chicken Salad

Chicken, potatoes, and greens are always a choice grouping. Here, the addition of a pesto dressing transforms them into a vibrantly flavored dish. Use snap peas instead of English peas to keep things Whole30-compliant. (via Brit + Co)

Whole30 Shepherd’s Pie

Topped with a creamy cauliflower-potato mash, Whole30 shepherd’s pie is just one way to satisfy your comfort food cravings. (via Brit + Co)

Halibut en Papillote

Made with halibut, shiitake mushrooms, and a touch of sesame oil, this homemade fish dish is oh-so-memorable. Serve it with cauli rice to help soak up the extra sauce. (via The Clean Plate: Eat, Reset, Heal by Gwyneth Paltrow)

Instant Pot Salmon Dinner

Instant Pot Salmon Dinner

Sweet potatoes, broccoli, and orange-covered salmon cook up all at once in an Instant Pot within minutes so hanger doesn’t have time to strike. (via Brit + Co)

Keto Vegan Alfredo Zoodles

We think Whole30 will forgive us since alfredo sauce isn’t something people tend to binge on. Top it with shrimp or chicken for extra oomph. (via Brit + Co)

Whole30 Mashed Potatoes With Mushroom Gravy

Make a big batch of this and serve it alongside a steak. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Potato Egg Boat

Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Egg Boat

Don’t knock it till you try it. Egg, bacon, avo, and sweet potatoes surprisingly go very well together. (via Brit + Co)

Paleo Dressing

This bowl combines roasted root vegetables and sausage for an earthy, filling combo. Serve it with some cauliflower rice for a complete meal. (via Brit + Co)

Whole30 Chicken Salad

This easy grilled chicken salad, ideal for the nights when you want to quickly throw something together, happens to be Pinterest’s top recipe. (via Brit + Co)

As you already know if you've made it this far, getting through a month of healthy meals is all about the meal plan! We hope you've found some inspiration for easy, flavorful, colorful, and tasty meals that we imagine might land in your regular meal rotation beyond your Whole30 month? Find more inspiration in our weekly newsletter or enjoy a free month of our on-demand baking and cooking classes.

Main image via The Endless Meal