Major court cases broadcast live on TV around the world

To ensure transparency in judicial systems, many countries around the world have increasingly broadcast high-profile court hearings and verdicts live on television and digital platforms. A look at recent history shows that several landmark cases have been aired in real time, drawing massive global attention. Below are some of the most notable examples.

United States: O.J. Simpson Murder Trial (1995)

One of the most iconic examples in television history, the O.J. Simpson murder trial was broadcast live across the United States. More than 150 million people watched various segments of the proceedings, marking a turning point in the era of televised courtrooms.

United States: Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard (2022)

The defamation case between Hollywood actors Johnny Depp and Amber Heard was streamed live on YouTube and numerous television networks throughout 2022. Millions across the world followed the trial daily, making it one of the most talked-about legal battles on social media.

United States: George Floyd Murder Trial (2021)

The trial of Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, accused of murdering George Floyd, was broadcast live by many U.S. television channels and online platforms. Given the global movement against racial injustice, this live coverage held major social and political significance.

South Africa: Oscar Pistorius Trial (2014)

The trial of Olympic sprinter Oscar Pistorius, charged with killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, was broadcast live on South African television. It remains one of the most prominent examples of televised legal proceedings in Africa.

United Kingdom: Live Sentencing Remarks (2022)

In 2022, the UK broadcast sentencing remarks from a murder case for the first time in its history. This was seen as a landmark shift toward greater transparency within the British judicial system.

India: Supreme Court Constitution Bench (2022–present)

Since 2022, the Supreme Court of India has been live-streaming major constitutional bench hearings. Several High Courts have also started broadcasting important hearings in the public interest.

Brazil: Supreme Federal Court (STF)

Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court is regarded as one of the most transparent judicial bodies globally. Many of its high-profile cases are broadcast live, both online and on television, making courtroom proceedings accessible to the public.

International Courts (ICJ, ICC)

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has live-streamed hearings related to the Rohingya genocide case, the Ukraine–Russia dispute, and the Palestine issue. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has also broadcast numerous cases and procedural sessions live to global audiences.

Experts believe the growing trend of live courtroom broadcasts enhances transparency and public trust in the judiciary. However, critics argue that excessive media exposure may influence courtroom dynamics and increase psychological pressure on defendants, witnesses, and even judges.