Unraveling Enigmas: A Sneak Peek into the Legacy Executive Producer's Insights on Unsolved Mysteries' 35th Anniversary

Summary

"Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy" is a documentary that reflects on the success of the original 1987 show and its impact on helping to solve cases.

The crew interviews the original team and unveils unseen footage of host Robert Stack, providing fans with a fresh insight into their beloved mysteries.

Terry Dunn Meurer, co-creator of the show, delves into its lasting impact, emphasizes the significance of audience participation, and expresses her immense pride in contributing to the resolution of families' cases.

Now available on major streaming platforms, Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy originally debuted exclusively on Pluto TV on October 5. This documentary features interviews with the original 1987 show's crew and showcases its most impactful cases. Behind the Legacy takes a nostalgic look back at the accomplishments of Unsolved Mysteries with the help of its dedicated fan base, offering never-before-seen footage of the late Robert Stack.

Terry Dunn Meurer, the co-creator of Unsolved Mysteries alongside John Cosgrove, serves as the director and executive producer of Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy. Dunn Meurer's experience includes various projects like The Family That Slays Together, Caffeine, and Buffalo Dreams.

Our website exclusively interviewed Terry Dunn Meurer about the show's longevity, host Robert Stack's impact, and how fans have helped law enforcement close hundreds of cases.

Terry Dunn Meurer Talks Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy

Our website: What was it like to bring the crew together and reflect on everything the team has accomplished?

Terry Dunn Meurer: Conducting the interviews was an absolute delight. Despite having known some of these individuals for over three decades, I was captivated by the new stories that emerged during our interviews. While I was not physically present on all the filming locations, John and I effectively managed the production from our office. It was truly enjoyable to engage with everyone and bring them together. Throughout the years, we have fostered a tight-knit community of individuals who have contributed to the show. Although there were numerous individuals we wished to interview, we had to prioritize and include only a select few in the final product.

In "Behind the Legacy," it is revealed that Unsolved Mysteries drew inspiration from "Missing: Have You Seen This Person?" What initially sparked your interest in that particular project?

Terry Dunn Meurer had been producing documentaries for HBO's America Undercover series, specifically focusing on missing individuals. During one case involving missing adults, he actually succeeded in finding someone who had purposely disappeared. This breakthrough led to the creation of the NBC series Missing: Have You Seen This Person? After a few successful specials, the decision was made to expand the show to cover various types of mysteries, including crime, ghosts, paranormal phenomena, and science and medical stories. The show's ongoing success can be attributed to its diverse range of mysteries.

The crew expressed surprise at the series' longevity. When did you realize that the show could continue for a long time?

Terry Dunn Meurer: I think we started to realize near the end of season 1. We were solving cases, and the numbers and ratings on NBC were strong. The show was gaining momentum and popularity. At that time, there were only four broadcast networks, so we had a larger share of the audience. Nowadays, with the audience split between broadcast, cable, and streaming, appointment television is not as prevalent. We were fortunate to have a large share of the audience, and word of mouth helped us become popular. After season 1, we hoped for another season and just kept solving cases. It was quite surreal. When I reflect on it, producing the series for 15 years feels like one continuous adrenaline rush.

Technology has undergone significant advancements since the show initially began airing. What are some notable contrasts between the pilot episode and the episodes from the 2020s?

According to Terry Dunn Meurer, one major difference is the absence of the internet during the early stages of the show. This meant that the team couldn't search for stories online; instead, they relied on contacting police departments or receiving stories through viewer mail. However, as time progressed, people started submitting stories directly. This change had a significant impact on the show.

Furthermore, the introduction of social media has transformed viewer engagement. Nowadays, viewers can discuss and share their thoughts on the stories featured in the episodes through various social media platforms. In the past, when the show aired on a specific time and day, viewers would eagerly converse with their families and co-workers the following day. It served as a topic for "water cooler" conversations.

The production process has undergone significant changes, making it much easier now. With the advent of cell phones and computers, I vividly recall the days when I would go down to the hotel front desk on location to print out the schedules for the next day's shoot. The only option then was using paper, and I would slip these schedules under everyone's door. It's remarkable how much things have transformed. Initially, we used to film instead of shooting tape, which presented its own set of challenges.

How do you perceive the contribution of Robert Stack's narration to Unsolved Mysteries?

Terry Dunn Meurer: The show's success is greatly attributed to Bob's gravitas and credibility. His believability and wonderful voice have had a profound impact on so many viewers. Many would express how they were affected by the music or how they would hide upon hearing Bob Stack's voice. Bob played a significant role in the show's success and was a joy to work with throughout the years. Reflecting on it now, how does it feel to know that the show you created has contributed to solving numerous cases and continues to do so?

Terry Dunn Meurer: We take immense pride in our accomplishments, and "proud" truly epitomizes our sentiment. Even after all this time, we have maintained a stellar reputation with law enforcement, which speaks volumes. Viewers perceive us as a highly credible television program, and that is a source of great pride. Our approach to working with individuals is something I am particularly proud of. Naturally, I am proud of the show itself, but what resonates with me are the heartwarming letters we receive expressing gratitude for sharing their stories. Even law enforcement, initially apprehensive about the media's involvement, find themselves genuinely proud. The manner in which we navigated the intricacies of the show is a testament to our pride. I take immense pride in the dedicated individuals who poured their hearts and souls into this series. Moreover, the show's resounding success and the resolution it brings to countless families brings me immense pride. It is beyond my wildest imagination that, after 35 years, I would find myself here, conversing with you about Unsolved Mysteries.

Do you have an estimate of how many cases the show has successfully resolved?

Terry Dunn Meurer: The show primarily focuses on solvable cases, such as crimes and lost loves. However, some of the cases we feature, like those involving ghosts, UFOs, and the paranormal, are not solvable. Out of all the solvable cases, viewers have managed to solve approximately 260 of them. The majority of these involve reuniting families and friends through the use of technology, particularly the internet. It's worth noting that not all of the cases were solved during the production of the series, as some have been resolved since then.

DNA did not exist in the past, as it is a technology that was not available at that time. However, now it plays a crucial role in solving many cases. One such example is the Golden State Killer case, which we had profiled years ago and has recently been solved. Although numerous tips were received about the case, the breakthrough did not come from our show. Nonetheless, it is important to highlight that cases continue to be solved, irrespective of whether they are connected to our program or not. Our main focus is seeing justice being served, regardless of the source that leads to the resolution.

Could you please discuss the enthusiasm displayed by viewers and the significance of their participation to you?

Unsolved Mysteries has an incredibly dedicated fan base who consistently return to watch the show. We often provide updates at the end of the stories, as some cases have been solved, and our fans eagerly anticipate these updates. They are so engaged that if we don't update quickly enough, they'll even send us emails urging us to do so. It's remarkable how this show has transcended generations - people who watched it with their grandparents or parents are now introducing it to younger viewers. Even 20-year-olds are watching the older episodes and are familiar with the brand. It's truly impressive that Unsolved Mysteries has remained popular for decades, with viewers continuously coming back. Mentioning the show to someone almost always elicits recognition, if not viewership. While there are those who haven't watched it, very few have not heard of Unsolved Mysteries.

Observing Matthew McConaughey's career growth since his initial appearance on the series has been fascinating. Behind the Legacy highlights how he viewed Unsolved Mysteries as a significant breakthrough in his career.

Terry Dunn Meurer: It has been an enjoyable experience. We always find it amusing when he mentions his involvement with Unsolved Mysteries. It's wonderful to hear that it may have contributed to his career advancement, although we cannot claim full credit for it. He is a genuinely nice individual.

In your opinion, how has Unsolved Mysteries played a significant role in shaping the true crime genre into its present form?

Terry Dunn Meurer believes that Unsolved was one of the pioneers in actively involving the audience in solving cases rather than simply recounting crime stories. The show actively engaged viewers by inviting them to contribute their knowledge or insights, as exemplified by Bob Stack's closing lines. Meurer considers Unsolved to be more of a mystery show than a true crime show, as it explored a range of mysteries.

Meurer is confident that their show has made a significant impact on crime-solving. Fugitives have been apprehended in various countries, including American Samoa and Sweden. While small towns traditionally relied on local Crime Stoppers to display fugitive cases or unresolved cases, Unsolved revealed that these criminals could be captured in different states or even countries. Consequently, the show heightened people's awareness and made them more vigilant about potential threats.

Do you have a particular case that you have a strong emotional investment in and are still hopeful it will be resolved?

Terry Dunn Meurer: I cannot single out just one case as it wouldn't be fair to the others. I have the same level of excitement when a case is solved now as I did 20 years ago. This morning, there was news about the Natalee Holloway case, which is 20 years old. Although we didn't cover it on Unsolved, her family deserves closure and deserves to know where her body is. Even for cases we haven't covered, I wish for closure for all families and answers for those who are still searching. Unfortunately, some individuals who appeared on Unsolved are passing away without getting the closure we had hoped to provide. So there isn't just one case. I simply hope that all cases can be solved, with DNA playing a significant role in that. Hopefully, more cases will continue to find resolution.

What are your hopes for the future of the show's impact and influence?

Terry Dunn Meurer: I hope that the fans will persist in watching and engaging, potentially leading to more cases being solved. It is my desire to continue creating new episodes of Unsolved Mysteries. Unfortunately, there are still countless crimes being committed and mysteries waiting to be solved. Our show, with its extensive reach, has the potential to make a difference and solve more cases. The more cases we can solve, the more successful we will be in achieving our goal, which remains the same - to solve as many mysteries as possible.

About Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy

"Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy" presents exclusive interviews with co-creators Terry Dunn Meurer and John Cosgrove, as well as veteran producers and directors of the show. This behind-the-scenes journey offers fans a fresh perspective on their favorite cases, uncovering untold stories and capturing every aspect of the show's production - from extensive research and casting to the swift resolution of mysteries. Delighting viewers, the documentary includes never-before-seen outtakes featuring beloved host Robert Stack and highlights unforgettable moments cherished by fans. "Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy" pays homage to one of television's timeless and iconic shows, while celebrating the dedicated fans who played a fundamental role in its remarkable success.

Unsolved Mysteries: Behind the Legacy is currently available to watch on Amazon Freevee, Tubi, The Roku Channel, and other major streaming platforms.