Peacock’s limited series “Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy” takes viewers deep into the notorious life of one of America’s most infamous serial killers, meticulously illustrating his heinous crimes while striving to honor the victims rather than indulge in sensationalism. Six hours into the series, viewers finally witness Gacy applying makeup and donning his clown costume—an iconic moment that starkly contrasts with the previously established tone of the show.
While the series, created by Patrick Macmanus, initially showcases the grim realities surrounding Gacy’s crimes, it opts for a more somber and reflective approach instead of succumbing to graphic sensationalism often found in similar narratives. Michael Chernus delivers a chilling performance as Gacy, portraying him with a disturbing blend of menace and charm, and allowing the humanity of his victims to be an equally prominent focus of the narrative.
The series begins with the disappearance of Elizabeth Piest’s son in December 1978, steering the storyline through the investigation led by Detective Joe Kozenczak. However, unlike typical serial killer dramas that revel in violence and horror, “Devil in Disguise” emphasizes emotional turmoil and societal issues surrounding Gacy’s victims. Many were marginalized individuals whose vulnerabilities he preyed upon, rather than solely presenting Gacy as the quintessential monster.
Macmanus dives into the neglected backstories of Gacy’s victims, incorporating flashbacks that reveal their struggles and circumstances leading to their tragic fates. This layered storytelling invites viewers to reflect on the societal failures that allowed Gacy to thrive in a climate of neglect. Episodes feature a blend of police investigation, legal proceedings, and flashbacks to illuminate the lives of both victims and the killer in an attempt to provide a wider context to Gacy’s actions.
The series avoids including photographic or video representations of the real Gacy, instead incorporating real news coverage and still images of the victims, which fosters a poignant reminder of the true human cost of Gacy’s actions. Each episode culminates in a call to action for youth support networks, highlighting ongoing issues of alienation faced by many young people today.
Some criticisms can be directed at the series for its pacing and the execution of certain thematic conclusions. However, the finale, which jumps to Gacy’s execution in 1994, raises significant ethical and spiritual questions around the death penalty, offering a reflective, if brief, exploration of forgiveness and justice.
Not merely dwelling on gore, “Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy” ultimately presents a sincere narrative that engages with serious themes and societal issues. It evokes a lingering sense of loss while recognizing the importance of advocacy for those who continue to suffer in silence, suggesting that even in the face of horror, there is space for hope and a push for change. This thoughtful approach distinguishes it from a genre often criticized for its exploitative tendencies, reaffirming that there are still important stories to tell even in the most somber of contexts.