New Series Explores Life of Serial Killer’s Daughter

LOS ANGELES, CA – The new Paramount+ series “Happy Face,” premiering March 20, delves into the complexities of Melissa Moore‘s life as the daughter of notorious serial killer Keith Jesperson, also known as the Happy Face Killer. This eight-part series blends fact and fiction as it examines Moore’s personal journey amidst her father’s heinous crimes.

Melissa Moore, portrayed by Annaleigh Ashford, recounts her life growing up in Spokane, Washington, under the shadow of her father’s violent reputation. Jesperson, who murdered at least eight women in the 1990s, was known for signing his confessional letters with a smiley face, earning him his unsettling moniker.

“He wasn’t always a monster. He became one,” Moore states in the series. “Before that, he was just my dad.” Her perspective sheds light on the long-lasting trauma experienced not just by victims but also by the families of offenders.

In 2008, during a revealing appearance on “Dr. Phil,” Moore began to publicly confront her father’s past. Her decision to speak out evolved into a career in true crime media, including writing a memoir and producing podcasts. “I just never felt seen in any true crime films,” Moore explained. “It was really important to put my story out there to connect with other families.”

“Happy Face” is inspired by her 2009 memoir and a 2018 podcast series, but the series is not an exact retelling of her life. It introduces fictional elements, such as Moore’s role as a makeup artist on a talk show that parallels her relationship with her father. The series takes creative liberties, presenting a somewhat whimsical narrative tone despite the dark subject matter.

Paramount+ executive producers have described the tone of the show as a unique blend of gripping thriller and light-hearted drama. Still, some scenes juxtapose Mike Moore’s idyllic moments with her father’s chilling persona, leaving viewers grappling with the series’ mixed realities.

Keith Jesperson, who spent years evading capture, committed his first documented murder in 1990 after his divorce. He later confessed to multiple murders, becoming infamous for his manipulative tactics and chilling confessions. His daughter Melissa, as the series portrays, is caught between her father’s legacy and her quest for personal truth.

In a reveal, Melissa grapples with the possibility of an innocent person being wrongfully executed for a crime her father committed. “If I don’t deal with him, there is a family who lost a daughter, who will never get answers,” she states.

As the premiere date approaches, anticipation builds for how “Happy Face” will present obstacles faced by victims’ families and challenge societal perceptions of crime and culpability. New episodes will be released weekly following the initial two-episode premiere.