Overview
Rodney Alcala, known as the "Dating Game Killer," was a convicted serial killer whose crimes became infamous after his appearance on a TV dating show in 1978. Netflix's "Woman of the Hour" revisits his case, exploring both his disturbing double life and the chilling extent of his crimes.
Alcala’s Appearance on The Dating Game
- Alcala appeared as a charming bachelor on "The Dating Game" in 1978 and won a date with Cheryl Bradshaw.
- Bradshaw ultimately refused the date, sensing something was wrong, which may have saved her life.
- Producers were unaware of Alcala's criminal background due to lack of background checks.
Criminal Background and Modus Operandi
- Alcala had previously served 34 months in prison for sexually assaulting an eight-year-old girl, Tali Shapiro.
- He killed at least eight women in New York, California, and Wyoming between 1971 and 1979.
- Investigators believe Alcala may have been responsible for up to 100 murders.
- Alcala was described as stalking women and taking trophies such as earrings from his victims.
Victims and Convictions
- He was convicted in 2010 for five murders in California between 1977 and 1979, including Robin Samsoe, Jill Barcomb, Georgia Wixted, Charlotte Lamb, and Jill Parenteau.
- In 2012, Alcala was sentenced in New York for the earlier murders of Cornelia Crilley and Ellen Jane Hover.
- He was also charged with the murder of Christine Ruth Thornton in Wyoming in 2016.
- The crimes involved sexual assault, torture, and brutal violence.
Evidence and Investigation
- Authorities discovered over 100 photos of women and girls in Alcala’s storage locker, believed to be related to other unsolved cases.
- Law enforcement released the photos hoping to identify additional victims.
Alcala’s Later Life and Death
- Alcala died of natural causes on death row in July 2021 at the age of 77.
- Surviving victims expressed relief at his passing and closure following the long investigation.
Media and Cultural Impact
- The Netflix film "Woman of the Hour," directed by Anna Kendrick, dramatizes Alcala’s TV appearance and crimes.
- The case continues to be referenced as an example of how charm and outward normalcy can mask extreme danger.