Bonus: John Wayne Gacy: A Case Review & Peacock’s “Devil in Disguise”
In this bonus episode of Once Upon a Crime, Esther revisits the horrific crimes of serial killer John Wayne Gacy, often referred to as “The Killer Clown,” and reviews the 2025 Peacock docu-drama Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy. The episode explores Gacy’s background, his crimes, the investigation's failures, and how the new series approaches the case from a victim-centered perspective.
🔍 Episode Overview
- A concise but comprehensive summary of John Wayne Gacy’s life, early red flags, criminal history, and escalation into serial murder.
- A breakdown of the 1978 investigation that led to the discovery of 33 victims and Gacy’s eventual arrest.
- Key points from Gacy’s trial, sentencing, and 1994 execution after 14 years on death row.
- Esther’s review of the 2025 Peacock TV series, Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy:
- How the series differs from past portrayals
- Why its victim-focused storytelling stands out
- What is factually accurate and what is dramatized
- A discussion of additional theories, research, and case details not included in the series.
📚 Sources & Further Reading
- Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy (2025), Peacock TV / Littleton Road Productions
- Creator & Showrunner: Patrick McManus
- Rolling Stone – “Four Things ‘Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy’ Leaves Out”
- Elisabeth Garber-Paul (Oct 24, 2025)
- EBSCO Knowledge Advantage: John Wayne Gacy – Research Starters
- People Magazine – “‘Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy’ — What’s Fact, What’s Fiction?”
- Caroline Blair (Oct 20, 2025)
This episode was brought to you by:
Completing the Puzzle - Go to CompletingthePuzzle.com and use code OUAC for $10 off your first puzzle subscription box or gift card. Because no one’s been murdered while doing a puzzle.
Shop our OUAC MERCH SHOP holiday sale!
For a limited time, get up to 27% off all products — including $16 tees — during our Holiday Sale. But hurry, deals end December 15th! Place your order by the 15th for delivery before Christmas.
Shop now at onceuponacrime.dashery.com.
✈️ Travel with Us to Mexico City! 🇲🇽
We’re taking Once Upon a Crime on the road—and you’re invited! In March 2026, join us for a fun, fabulous 4-day group trip to vibrant Mexico City. Explore incredible sights, savor delicious food, and connect with fellow true crime fans on an unforgettable adventure.
Reserve your spot today with just 25% down—but hurry, space is limited and will sell out fast!
🔗 Click here to learn more and book your spot now!
📝 Connect With the Show
Have thoughts about the series or the case? Want more bonus reviews?
Let Esther know on social media or at truecrimepodcast.com.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
