Devil in Disguise Explores the Life of John Wayne Gacy

CHICAGO, Illinois — Peacock’s limited series, Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy, presents a chilling portrayal of one of America’s most notorious serial killers. The show debuts on Thursday, October 16, with a cast that includes Michael Chernus and Gabriel Luna.

In nearly six hours of content, viewers finally witness Gacy applying make-up and slipping into his infamous clown costume—a moment emblematic of his murderous reputation. This macabre reveal stands in stark contrast to the subtle unfolding of the narrative in the series’ early episodes.

Creator Patrick Macmanus has aimed to deliver a complex portrayal, navigating away from gory sensationalism that often typifies true crime dramas. Instead, the show focuses on the psychological aspects of Gacy’s crimes, depicting his relationships with the victims and law enforcement as equally important to the horror of his actions.

Opening on December 11, 1978, we are introduced to Elizabeth Piest, a mother seeking justice for her missing son. Police chief Joe Kozenczak reassures her that most teenagers return home, but desperate for answers, she pushes for a deeper investigation.

As investigators dig deeper, Gacy’s seemingly affable demeanor quickly turns suspicious. His interactions become pivotal as evidence mounts against him, leading to dark discoveries in his home. The show offers insight into how Gacy evaded capture despite numerous warnings over his troubling behavior.

Devil in Disguise tackles sensitive themes, including the marginalization of Gacy’s victims, who were often labeled as male prostitutes. The series avoids glorifying violence, instead opting for a somber tone that reflects the tragic circumstances leading to their victimization.

The narrative unfolds through a mix of police work, legal drama, and haunting flashbacks, showcasing the lives of both Gacy and his victims. Although the backstory of Gacy himself is explored, the series prioritizes empathy for those affected by his crimes.

Each episode concludes with real news footage and images of the victims, serving as a solemn reminder of the events portrayed. The actors, particularly Chernus as Gacy, deliver performances that resonate with the pain and suffering associated with his actions.

As the series approaches its conclusion, it revisits Gacy’s execution in 1994, bringing survivors and families together to contemplate the moral complexities of capital punishment. This reflective ending underscores the series’ emphasis on understanding rather than sensationalism, a refreshing take in a genre often fraught with excess.