Murder in Glitterball City is a 2026 American true-crime documentary series that blends crime, biography, and social history. Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato direct the two-part series. It is based on David Dominé’s true-crime book A Dark Room in Glitter Ball City.
The series investigates a shocking 2010 murder case in Louisville, Kentucky. Police discover the buried body of James “Jamie” Carroll, a local salon owner and drag performer, hidden inside a historic mansion. The main suspects, Joseph “Joey” Banis and Jeffrey “Jase” Mundt, were former partners who lived in the home.
The documentary follows their toxic relationship and separate murder trials. It also explores Louisville’s queer community and the city’s nickname, “Glitterball City.” The series premieres on February 19, 2026, and streams on HBO Max.
Murder in Glitterball City Age Rating
Murder in Glitterball City is rated TV-MA for mature themes, disturbing content, and strong language. This rating means the series is intended for adults and may be unsuitable for viewers under 17. The show contains detailed discussions of a real-life murder case, references to a buried body, toxic relationships, and courtroom testimony involving deception and abuse. Because it is a true-crime documentary, the emotional weight feels realistic and intense.
Violence & Peril
The series contains strong thematic violence. While there is no dramatized gore, the documentary includes detailed descriptions of a brutal killing and the concealment of a body. Crime scene discussions and courtroom testimony may be disturbing for sensitive viewers. The emotional tone is tense and unsettling throughout.
Language
Strong language is present in interviews and courtroom recordings. Profanity is used at times, including harsh insults, during discussions of the suspects’ relationship. The language reflects real conversations and trial footage, making it feel raw and unfiltered.
Mature Themes
The documentary centers on real-life murder, manipulation, and abusive romantic dynamics. It explores toxic relationships, deception, and betrayal. Themes related to sexuality are discussed in the context of the victim’s identity and the suspect’s relationship. The psychological intensity and real-world trauma make this series appropriate only for mature audiences.
Is Murder in Glitterball City Suitable for Teens?
Ages 16–17: With Strong Guidance. Mature older teens may understand the legal and social themes, but the emotional weight is heavy. Parents should be aware of disturbing discussions about murder and abuse.
Ages 13–15: No. The detailed murder investigation and toxic relationship themes are too intense for young teens. The TV-MA rating reflects serious adult content.
Under 13: No. This series is not appropriate for children. The subject matter is deeply mature and psychologically intense.
Overall, Murder in Glitterball City is best suited for adults ages 18 and older.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch an episode first to understand the tone and intensity before allowing older teens to view it.
- Discuss healthy versus toxic relationships if teens are exposed to the series.
- Talk about how documentaries present real crimes and the emotional impact on families and communities.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Murder in Glitterball City?
A: It is rated TV-MA for mature themes, disturbing content, and strong language.
Q: Is Murder in Glitterball City appropriate for teens?
A: It may be appropriate for older teens with strong parental guidance, but it is not suitable for younger teens.
Q: Does the series show graphic violence?
A: There is no graphic reenactment gore, but there are detailed discussions of a real-life murder and a buried body.
Q: Is there strong language in the documentary?
A: Yes. Some strong profanity appears in interviews and trial footage.
Q: Does the series include sexual content?
A: There is no explicit sexual content, but it discusses adult relationships and sexuality in context.
Q: Where can I watch Murder in Glitterball City?
A: The series streams exclusively on HBO Max beginning February 19, 2026.