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Netflix has no lack of true crime documentaries to watch, but deciding which one’s worth your time can be challenging. Luckily, we’re here to help. Below we’ve rounded up a curated list of some of the best true crime documentaries on Netflix right now. They include brand new documentary films and long docuseries, and cover topics ranging from serial killers to terrorist attacks to false imprisonment.

Consider your next true crime watch settled.

“Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror” (Netflix) Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror

The newest doc of the bunch is the film “Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror.” To mark the 30th anniversary of the deadly terrorist attack, the movie chronicles the bombing, aftermath and manhunt for Timothy McVeigh through the eyes of those who were actually there. The bombing of the federal building was the deadliest homegrown terrorist attack on U.S. soil, killing over 167 people.

While the movie business has experienced a concerning degree of commercial and critical turbulence over the first three months of 2025, television has stepped up to provide entertainment seekers an impressive array of captivating new series, as well as stellar new seasons from returning shows. "Severance" just stuck the landing at the end of its celebrated second season, "The White Lotus" is back doing its darkly comedic thing with possibly its strongest cast to date, and "The Studio" is a brilliantly brutal Hollywood satire that takes no prisoners in showing viewers how the showbiz sausage is made.

Hence, it's a very high compliment to suggest that the new Max hospital drama, "The Pitt," might be the best of the '25 bunch thus far. Created by R. Scott Gemmill, a TV writing veteran who got his start on "ER" before taking the showrunning reins on "NCIS: Los Angeles," the show is a...

We all love monsters. From Dracula and King Kong to the Wolfman and Freddy Krueger, our affection for these fictionalized beasts has been satisfied through film and television for over a century. The disconnect between the audience and the world in which these monsters exist is part of the enjoyment and escapism that horror has always sought to provide us. However, a very real evil lurks among us in the shadows and treads the same path as we do. This evil takes the form of individuals with a predatory nature who lack empathy for others. It’s an evil that we find repulsive and fascinating, and much like the fictionalized creations of Hollywood, they’ve also been incarnated on film and television.

Whether it’s the depiction of Adolf Hitler in Downfall or the true-crime series Monster: The Jeffrey Damher Story on Netflix, the humanization of evil attracts controversy but...

On Friday March 14 2025, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Man Eater Season 6 Episode 5 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Man Eater,” promises a gripping look into the life of Marjorie Diehl-Armstrong. This episode will air on Investigation Discovery and delve into the dark transformation of a woman who once had a bright future. Viewers will see how her early life took a troubling turn as she became involved in a series of shocking crimes.

Marjorie Diehl-Armstrong is introduced as a promising young woman, full of potential and hope. However, as the episode unfolds, her true nature is revealed. The narrative will explore her descent into manipulation and crime, highlighting her involvement in bank robberies and gruesome murders. The chilling details of her life will captivate those interested in true crime stories.

The episode aims to provide insight into how someone can change from an...

On Friday March 14 2025, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

Thomas the Terrible Season 6 Episode 6 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “Thomas the Terrible,” promises to delve into the complex and troubling life of Yathomas Riley. Known as an undefeated rising star in the professional boxing scene, Riley’s story takes a dark turn when his personal life is examined. Viewers will see how the athlete’s impressive career in the ring contrasts sharply with his violent tendencies outside of it.

As the episode unfolds, it will explore how Riley’s fits of rage and aggression have led to serious consequences. The narrative will focus on a tragic incident in which he allegedly shot two women he claimed to love. This shocking event raises questions about the impact of fame and the pressures that come with being a public figure. The episode aims to provide insight into...

Prime Video‘s The Terminal List is adding another star to its upcoming season, with Gabriel Luna set to play the fan-favorite character Freddy Strain. Luna joins Chris Pratt, who plays Navy Seal James Reece, in the adaptation of Jack Carr’s novel. The sophomore season takes inspiration from Carr’s True Believer novel, the second in the James Reece book series.

Based on the best-selling novel by Jack Carr, The Terminal List follows James Reece (Chris Pratt) after his entire platoon of Navy SEALs is ambushed during a high-stakes covert mission. Reece returns home to his family with conflicting memories of the event and questions about his culpability. However, as new evidence comes to light, Reece discovers dark forces working against him, endangering his life and the lives of those he loves.

As I’d said, Luna will play Freddy Strain for The Terminal List Season 2. According to the character’s description,...

In recent decades, American society has developed an obsession with serial killers. Reaching an apex in the early 1990s, the American media significantly contributed to turning serial killers such as Jeffrey Dahmer, Ted Bundy, and John Wayne Gacy into celebrities. Oliver Stone's highly controversial film Natural Born Killers put a spotlight on America's obsession with serial killers and the role the media played in this phenomenon.

Currently, one of the most popular entertainment mediums is true crime television shows and documentaries, many of which revolve around serial killers. Cinema, going as far back as the silent era, has always been fascinated with portraying serial killers. Psycho, The Silence of the Lambs, and Se7en rank among the best serial killer movies ever made.

Related10 Best Gangster Movies From the 1930s, Ranked

Gangster movies have been thrilling audiences for decades and the 1930s created some truly special gangster movies.

Se...

On Sunday February 2 2025, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Angel of Death Season 6 Episode 8 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Angel of Death,” promises to take viewers on a chilling journey into the lives of some of the most notorious criminals in history. Hosted by Donnie Wahlberg, this episode will explore the dark and twisted stories behind these figures who have left a mark on society through their heinous acts.

In “The Angel of Death,” the focus will likely be on the psychological aspects of these criminals. Donnie Wahlberg will delve into the minds of individuals who committed unimaginable crimes, examining what drove them to such extremes. The episode will feature a mix of interviews, archival footage, and expert commentary to paint a vivid picture of these disturbing characters.

Viewers can expect to learn more about the backgrounds and motivations of these criminals, including...

Rod Blackhurst directed many short films and some music videos before he made his feature directorial debut with the post-apocalyptic horror film Here Alone. Since then, he has worked on Amanda Knox and John Wayne Gacy documentaries, as well as the Will Smith series Welcome to Earth, and directed the crime thriller Blood for Dust. Now, Variety reports that he’s moving ahead with a dystopian creature feature called Die by Night, and he has gathered a cast for the film that includes Isabelle Fuhrman of the Orphan franchise, Ben Hardy (Bohemian Rhapsody), and Scoot McNairy (Nightbitch).

Blackhurst is set to direct Die by Night from a screenplay he wrote himself, with Variety noting that the script is based on a prequel screenplay he wrote with J. Hunter Richardson that’s called The Chosen Few. So if Die by Night is successful, maybe we’ll see Blackhurst make the prequel The Chosen Few as well.

On Sunday January 26 2025, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Real Hannibal Season 6 Episode 7 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Real Hannibal,” promises to delve into the chilling life of one of history’s most notorious criminals. Hosted by Donnie Wahlberg, this episode will explore the dark and twisted paths taken by individuals whose actions shocked the world.

In “The Real Hannibal,” viewers can expect a closer look at the criminal mind and the factors that lead to such heinous acts. The episode will feature detailed accounts of the lives of infamous figures, including Charles Manson, Aileen Wuornos, and John Wayne Gacy. Each story reveals the complexities and horrors of their actions, shedding light on the psychological aspects that drive some people to commit unspeakable crimes.

As always, Donnie Wahlberg’s narration will guide the audience through these disturbing tales, providing context and insight into...

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Angel of Death,” promises to delve into the chilling stories of some of the most notorious criminals in history. Airing on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 8:00 Pm on Investigation Discovery, this episode is sure to captivate those interested in the darker side of humanity.

Host Donnie Wahlberg will guide viewers through the twisted lives of infamous figures like Charles Manson, Aileen Wuornos, and John Wayne Gacy. Each story reveals the disturbing motivations and backgrounds that led these individuals down their dark paths. The episode aims to provide a deeper understanding of what drives people to commit such heinous acts.

“The Angel of Death” will not only focus on the criminals themselves but also explore the impact of their actions on victims and society. With gripping storytelling and insightful commentary, this episode is set to be both enlightening and unsettling. Fans of true...

On Thursday January 23 2025, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Black Hand of Death Season 6 Episode 3 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Black Hand of Death,” promises to be a gripping look into the dark world of crime in New York City during the early 1990s. The episode focuses on Clarence Preacher Heatley, a notorious drug kingpin who thrived during the crack epidemic. His story reveals the ruthless nature of his operations and the extreme measures he took to maintain his power.

Viewers will learn how Heatley amassed millions of dollars while ruling the drug trade in the city. The episode highlights his violent tactics, including the murders of those who stood in his way. The chilling atmosphere of the time is captured through interviews and accounts from those who lived through it, painting a vivid picture of the fear and chaos that surrounded his reign.

On Thursday January 23 2025, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

A Family to Fear Season 6 Episode 4 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “A Family to Fear,” promises to delve into a chilling story that shakes the foundation of what seems like the perfect American family. The episode focuses on David Matusiewicz, Christine Belford, and their four children, who initially appear to be living a dream life. However, this dream quickly turns into a nightmare when David’s parents move in, leading to a series of troubling events.

As the episode unfolds, it explores how the presence of David’s parents creates tension within the family. Their desire for control over the children raises serious allegations of abuse. This situation spirals out of control, resulting in a shocking 19-month kidnapping that leaves the family shattered. The emotional turmoil and desperation during this time highlight the dark side of...

[Warning: This article contains descriptions of sexual abuse.] Law and Order alum Jack Merrill is revealing more detail about his horrific encounter with serial killer John Wayne Gacy, who abducted and sexually abused him when he was 19 years old. Merrill discusses the ordeal in his one-man play The Save, which debuted in October 2024, detailing how he met and ultimately survived Gacy in 1978 in Chicago, Illinois. “The whole reason I’m doing The Save is to connect with people in a way that is way different from what most would expect from someone who has experienced what I have,” Merrill told Us Weekly following a performance of the play this past Friday (January 17). Gacy was arrested in 1978 and, in 1980, was found guilty of 33 counts of murder. He was executed in 1994. In his play, Merrill talks about his childhood and how it prepared him for dealing with Gacy. According to Us Weekly, the actor revealed how his parents were emotionally,...

On Sunday January 19 2025, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

Thomas the Terrible Season 6 Episode 1 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “Thomas the Terrible,” is set to explore the dark side of a rising star in the boxing world. Yathomas Riley has gained fame for his impressive skills in the ring, but his life outside of it tells a much different story. This episode promises to delve into the complexities of his character, revealing how his anger and violent tendencies have led to tragic consequences.

Yathomas Riley is known for being undefeated in his boxing career, but his personal life is marred by allegations of rage-fueled incidents. The episode will examine how his aggressive behavior escalated to a shocking event where he allegedly shot two women he claimed to love. This stark contrast between his public persona as a champion and his private struggles with violence creates...

On Sunday January 12 2025, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Man Eater Season 6 Episode 5 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Man Eater,” promises a deep dive into the chilling life of Marjorie Diehl-Armstrong. Known for her intelligence and charm, Marjorie’s story takes a dark turn as she transforms from a hopeful young woman into a figure of manipulation and crime.

As the episode unfolds, viewers will learn about Marjorie’s early life and the events that led her down a dangerous path. Her initial promise quickly fades as she becomes involved in bank robberies and a series of gruesome murders. The narrative will explore how her cunning nature and ability to deceive those around her contributed to her sinister actions.

“The Man Eater” aims to shed light on the complexities of Marjorie’s character and the impact of her crimes. The episode will feature interviews,...

On Sunday January 5 2025, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

A Family to Fear Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “A Family to Fear,” promises to delve into a chilling story that showcases how a seemingly perfect family life can unravel into horror. This episode focuses on David Matusiewicz, Christine Belford, and their four children, who initially appear to be living the American dream. However, the arrival of David’s parents introduces tension and conflict that will lead to devastating consequences.

As the episode unfolds, viewers will learn how the dynamics within the Matusiewicz family shift when David’s parents move in. The desire for control over the children escalates, leading to serious allegations of abuse. The struggle for power and authority within the household creates a toxic environment that ultimately spirals out of control. This episode will explore the complexities of family relationships and the dark side of parental influence.

On Sunday December 29 2024, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Cleveland Strangler Season 6 Episode 1 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Cleveland Strangler,” promises to delve into the chilling story of one of America’s most notorious killers. Hosted by Donnie Wahlberg, this episode will explore the dark history and disturbing psychology behind the Cleveland Strangler.

Viewers can expect to learn about the life of the killer, including the events that shaped his twisted motives. The episode will retrace the steps that led to his crimes, examining the factors that contributed to his violent behavior. Donnie Wahlberg will guide the audience through the investigation, highlighting how law enforcement ultimately caught the Strangler and brought him to justice.

As with previous episodes, “The Cleveland Strangler” aims to provide a deeper understanding of the mind of a killer. The show will combine interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis...

On Sunday December 29 2024, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Sun Gym Sadists Season 6 Episode 2 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Sun Gym Sadists,” promises to delve into a chilling chapter of crime in mid-90s Miami. The episode will explore the dark actions of a group of bodybuilders known as the Sun Gym Gang. This crew, initially focused on robbing wealthy individuals, soon spirals into a world of violence and murder.

As the episode unfolds, viewers will learn how the gang’s greed led them down a dangerous path. Their desire for money and power pushed them to commit increasingly horrific acts. The story highlights one of the most gruesome crime scenes in Florida’s history, showcasing the shocking consequences of their actions.

With interviews and detailed accounts, “The Sun Gym Sadists” aims to shed light on this disturbing tale. It will examine the...

On Sunday December 29 2024, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Black Hand of Death Season 6 Episode 3 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Black Hand of Death,” promises to delve into the dark and dangerous world of drug trafficking in New York City during the early 1990s. The episode will focus on Clarence Preacher Heatley, a notorious drug kingpin who amassed a fortune during the crack epidemic. His ruthless methods and violent tactics made him a feared figure in the city.

Viewers will learn about Heatley’s rise to power and the lengths he went to maintain control over his territory. The episode will highlight how he eliminated anyone who posed a threat to his empire, leaving a trail of devastation in his wake. The brutality of his reign is underscored by the tragic story of a 12-year-old boy whose life was cut short due to...

On Sunday December 22 2024, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Sun Gym Sadists Season 5 Episode 5 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People,” titled “The Sun Gym Sadists,” promises to delve into a chilling chapter of crime from mid-90s Miami. This episode focuses on a group of bodybuilders known as the Sun Gym Gang, who became notorious for their criminal activities. As the story unfolds, viewers will learn how this crew targeted wealthy individuals, robbing them of their riches.

As the gang’s greed escalated, their actions took a dark turn. The episode will highlight how the Sun Gym Gang’s crimes evolved from theft to murder, leading to one of the most gruesome crime scenes in Florida’s history. The shocking details of their violent behavior will be explored, shedding light on the motivations behind their horrific actions.

In this gripping installment, “Very Scary People” will provide...

Television has always been a reflection of society’s darker fascinations, but the rise of serial killers and true crime has taken center stage in recent years.

From fictional antiheroes like Dexter Morgan and Joe Goldberg to dramatizations of real-life horrors like Dahmer and The Act, our screens are filled with stories of murder, manipulation, and mayhem.

But why do these characters captivate us so deeply? And where is the line between exploring human darkness and exploiting real-life tragedy?

Dexter Morgan – Dexter (Showtime)

As Dexter: Original Sin brings us closer to the roots of one of TV’s most iconic killers, let’s dig into how TV turned these murderers into cultural icons — and why true crime has become a genre we can’t seem to quit.

Fictional Killers: Charming, Terrifying, and…Sympathetic?

There’s something about fictional killers that lures us in.

Dexter Morgan, a forensic expert by day...

On Sunday December 15 2024, Investigation Discovery broadcasts Very Scary People!

The Cleveland Strangler Season 5 Episode 2 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Very Scary People” titled “The Cleveland Strangler” promises to delve into the chilling story of one of history’s most notorious killers. This episode, hosted by Donnie Wahlberg, will explore the dark details surrounding the Cleveland Strangler and the impact he had on the community.

In this episode, Wahlberg will take viewers on a journey through the killer’s background, examining the events and circumstances that may have shaped his violent behavior. The show will look into the psychology behind his actions, aiming to provide insight into what drives someone to commit such horrific crimes. By analyzing the motives behind the killings, the episode hopes to shed light on the complexities of the human mind.

Additionally, “The Cleveland Strangler” will cover how law enforcement worked tirelessly to catch the criminal.

There’s a fabulous reunion happening behind the scenes of Peacock’s hilarious new comedy, Laid. Michael Angarano, who plays one of the former lovers of the show’s main character, the bewitched and bothered Ruby (Stephanie Hsu), has reunited with a former Will & Grace pal. That’s Laid executive producer and co-showrunner Sally Bradford McKenna, the Emmy-nominated writer and producer who penned 14 episodes of Will & Grace from 2001 and 2006. In a recent interview with MovieWeb, Angarano reflected on starring as young Elliot, Jack McFarland’s (Seam Hayes) son on the hit show, noting:

“Oh man, that show was majorly influential on my life… definitely, obviously, my career. It had just such great reach and people to this day talk about that show… [they] see me on that show and that character. But seeing those actors just at their level of professionalism and creativity, and just how generous they were with each other…...

While Prison Break often seems far-fetched, the background of its most tragic character is based on one of America's biggest real-life mysteries. The Prison Break series lasted for four seasons, a movie, and a reboot. Its success is partly due to the tension-filled escape plot, and partly due to the characters, who all have secrets of their own. Prison Break's Fox River Eight are antiheroes at least and villains at worst. While it is hard to root for dangerous characters like T-Bag, one fan-favorite character came close to escaping, but died at the last moment.

10 inmates tried to escape, but two didn't make it out, and one of them was Charles Westmoreland. Westmoreland was one of Fox River's oldest inmates, and he was both gentle and compassionate, taking Tweener under his wing and keeping a pet cat. Westmoreland's death was one of the most tragic moments in Prison Break,...

Almost thirty years ago, the world was shocked to learn about the death of the six-year-old child beauty pageant queen JonBenét Ramsey. The child was initially found missing, with a ransom note received by the Ramsey family. However, after a second search of the house, the girl was found dead in the basement of the house.

With Netflix’s Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey debuting on the platform earlier this week, the case has received renewed interest. The three-part docu-series by Joe Berlinger, who also made the Ted Bundy and John Wayne Gacy docu-series, chronicles the several mistakes the police department made and the suspects of the case.

Who Was JonBenét Ramsey? JonBenét Ramsey | Credits: Netflix

Born in 1990, JonBenét Ramsey was the daughter of Patsy and John Bennett Ramsey. She was born in Atlanta and then went on to do her schooling in Boulder. Her father John Ramsey was...

Sons of Anarchy star Charlie Hunnam is totally transformed in set images from the third season of Netflix's Monster. It was previously revealed that Hunnam would be playing Ed Gein in the series, and new images from the set have revealed a first look at the actor looking unrecognizable in the role.

Per TMZ, images taken from the set provide the first look at Hunnam as Ed Gein, the real-life murderer who's also known as "The Plainfield Ghoul" and "The Butcher of Plainfield." The photos are starting to get some attention on social media with fans impressed by just how different Hunnam looks in the role. With a haircut and clothing that's more reminiscent of how Gein appeared in the 1950s prior to his arrest, Hunnam looks to be in his most transformative performance yet.

Related WWE Monday Night Raw Sets Netflix Premiere Date, New Theme Song Announced

Netflix...

Season 1 of Amazon Prime Videos' Cross has the titular detective track down a serial killer who idolizes other famous serial killers, including The Sandman.

Amazon's newest crime drama, Cross, stars a wide range of actors, including Aldis Hodge as Alex Cross. A detective in Washington, D.C., who is obsessed with breaking down the psychology of criminals, which includes serial killers.

In this season of Cross, the detective manages to uncover a years-long serial killer who has been working in the shadows until recently. This killer is inspired by real-life serial killers such as Aileen Wournos and John Wayne Gacy, but one killer who has fans curious is The Sandman.

Read full article on The Direct.

Warning! This article contains spoilers for Cross season 1.

Warning! This article contains mentions of murder, sexual assault, and violent real-life crimes of several serial killers.

In Cross' eight-episode runtime, the central Fanboy Killer seems to draw references to many famous real-life serial killers, highlighting how much he admires them. Instead of maintaining an air of ambiguity surrounding its central killer's identity, Amazon Prime Video's Cross reveals who is in one of its opening episodes. The show portrays how the eccentric killer is obsessed with the lives and crimes of renowned serial killers and tries to make his victims look like the criminals he idolizes before murdering them.

As Alex Cross and his team learn more about the serial killer's long history of crimes, they, too, notice how much he looks up to some of the most notorious criminals to have ever lived. Owing to his obsession with serial killers, they call him the "Fanboy Killer.

NBC’s newest sitcom, St. Denis Medical, is still about a week away from its two-episode premiere, but if you’ve been watching literally any programming on the network, you’ve already been barraged with commercials that may have put you in the mood for a comedy that revolves around sick people and the professionals who look after them. While you kill time in the waiting room, here’s a selection of the best medical sitcoms you can stream instead. Doing so in a paper gown is optional.

[subtitle]1Childrens Hospital and Medical Police (Tied) [/subtitle]

Grey’s Anatomy was one of TV’s buzziest dramas when ex-Daily Show correspondent Rob Corddry created Childrens Hospital, a broad spoof of shows in which sexy young doctors work out their interpersonal issues while barely paying attention to their patients. Corddry stars as Dr. Blake Downs, who is clearly aiming for a Patch Adams-esque...

“9 Windows” (2024) by Lou Simon tells the story of a woman confined to her room searching for opportunities to troll and abuse anybody she dislikes online. However, this tendency is symptomatic of her traumatic history. The event that has left her confined to the room and the wheelchair has also confined her to a mental state that is irrational and highly unhealthy. This is a story of Liza and the extremities of the occurrences on the internet that in turn help her find a way back to healing.

9 Windows (2024) Plot Summary and Movie Synopsis: What does not kill makes one bitter?

The film begins with a freak accident of the protagonist, Liza, who was headed for her FBI training at Quantico with her parents. The accident kills her parents and leaves Liza with paraplegia. The accident, however, has left her lonely and extremely bitter. So, as a pastime, she...

Law & Order's Jack Merrill has detailed a terrifying ordeal with John Wayne Gacy. Gacy, who became known as The Killer Clown, was a serial killer who raped and murdered at least 33 young men throughout the 1970s. In 1978, Merrill accepted a ride from Gacy, who drugged and raped the then 19-year-old. Gacy would typically lure his victims by promising them work or money, before torturing them, raping and murdering them. He would dispose of bodies in a nearby river or his home's crawl space (where police discovered 26 bodies). Merrill's encounter with the notorious killer took place in 1978, the same year he was apprehended by police. In a People article, Merill recounts the incident in his own words.

Merrill's piece begins with an anecdote about his upbringing. According to Merrill, he lived in "a beautiful home but a very unhappy place." His mother had "a narcissistic personality" and he and his...

Known for roles in Law & Order and Eight Men Out, actor Jack Merrill recently revealed a terrifying incident from his life that had a profound impact on him. The actor kept this horrific experience a secret for years, sharing it with just a few close friends. Only lately did Merrill find the courage to talk about his experience after decades of putting the memory aside.

Jack Merrill | Credits: Instagram @jackymerrill

Jack Merrill disclosed recently about the notorious serial killer John Wayne Gacy, who killed and r*ped more than thirty young men and boys in the Chicago area in the 1970s, kidnapped and abused him when he was a young man.

Jack Merrill lived in a not-so-happy-home

Even though Jack Merrill was raised in a big, seemingly happy home in Evanston, Illinois, his early years were challenging. His father, Jerome Holtzman, was a prominent sportswriter credited with creating the baseball “save” statistic.

At the time of his arrest, John Wayne Gacy had raped, tortured, and killed at least 33 young men around the Chicago area. Known as the “Killer Clown” because he worked as a children’s clown at the time, he remains one of the most notorious serial killers in American history.

In a recent interview, an actor who has appeared on shows like Law & Order has admitted that he was one of Gacy’s sexual assault victims but made it out of the experience alive. Here is what you need to know.

Jack Merrill Says John Wayne Gacy Raped Him At Gunpoint

Actor Jack Merrill said in a recent interview that John Wayne Gazy sexually assaulted him at gunpoint in 1978. He said that this happened just seven months before Gacy was arrested and charged with 33 murders. Merrill also said that he had no idea he was a serial killer during the assault.

Jack Merrill says he had a horrifying experience with serial killer John Wayne Gacy.

The 65-year-old Law & Order and Grey’s Anatomy actor claims he was abducted and raped by the notorious criminal in 1978 when he was just 19 years old in an essay for People.

He said he was living by himself in Chicago at the time, and encountered the killer while walking home at night.

“A guy pulled over and said, ‘Do you want to go for a ride?’” he wrote.

“He pulled over near the ramp of the Kennedy Expressway and asked if I’d ever done ‘poppers’—amyl nitrite. He pulled out this brown bottle, splashed some liquid on a rag and jammed it into my face. I passed out, and when I woke up, I was in handcuffs. I saw the exit for Cumberland on the expressway, near the airport, and the next thing I knew,...

[Warning: This article contains descriptions of sexual abuse.] Law and Order actor Jack Merrill has opened up about a horrifying encounter with serial killer John Wayne Gacy, who he reveals abducted and sexually abused him when he was 19 years old. Merrill, who has appeared in hit shows such as Sex and the City, Grey’s Anatomy, and The O.C., wrote about the incident in a piece for People magazine on Wednesday, October 23. In the article, Merrill says he met Gacy in 1978 while walking home at night in Chicago. “A guy pulled over and said, ‘Do you want to go for a ride?’” Merrill recalled. After getting into the vehicle, the actor said, “He pulled over near the ramp of the Kennedy Expressway and asked if I’d ever done ‘poppers’—amyl nitrite. He pulled out this brown bottle, splashed some liquid on a rag and jammed it into my face.” “I passed out, and when I woke up, I...

Hollywood is seemingly obsessed with serial killer stories, and one veteran actor is now relating his own, all-too real encounter with John Wayne Gacy.

Jack Merrill, whose decades-long career includes parts in Eight Men Out, Law & Order, Sex and the City, Grey’s Anatomy, Numb3rs and Hannah Montana, wrote this week about surviving abduction and rape at the hands of Gacy, a serial killer who sometimes dressed as a clown and who authorities say sexually assaulted and murdered at least 33 young men and boys.

Merrill says his assault happened in 1978, when he was 19.

“One night,” he writes for People, “I was walking home. A guy pulled over and said, ‘Do you want to go for a ride?'”

Merrill recalls that he accepted, only to be drugged and dragged to Gacy’s home.

“He put this homemade contraption around my neck,” writes the actor. “It had ropes and pulleys, and...

Exclusive: The death of JonBenét Ramsey, the child beauty queen who was killed in her family home in Colorado, has dominated headlines for nearly 30 years.

Director Joe Berlinger is reopening the case in a new three-part series for Netflix.

The streamer has ordered Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey, which will revisit the case with fresh eyes and perspective and features interviews with key people from the crime and investigation, including JonBenét’s father, John Ramsey.

Berlinger has directed true-crime docs including Netflix’s Conversations with a Killer strand that has told the stories of Ted Bundy, John Wayne Gacy and Jeffrey Dahmer as well Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills. The latter is widely considered responsible for helping to get three teenagers – the West Memphis Three – out of jail in the case.

The series will launch on November 25.

On the morning after Christmas in 1996, John and...

Following the unprecedented viewership success of Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story with its release on Netflix in September 2022, the streaming service renewed the controversial anthology series about infamous killers received a renewal for not one but two more seasons.

The first installment of that two-season pickup arrived two years later in September 2024 with the premiere of Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story. Staying in line with the previous offering, the new series centered on the Menendez brothers has already received criticism for its portrayals of the story and some creative decisions that were made.

As for the second installment of the two-season pickup, Netflix has officially named Ed Gein as the new monster at the center of season 3, and Ryan Murphy revealed the season will be titled The Original Monster. While details about the upcoming Monster season 3 are still coming in, here's what fans should know so far!

To the joy of Batman fans who absolutely hate Batman, this weekend we’re getting a sequel to 2019’s Joker, starring Joaquin Phoenix as the Clown Prince of Crime Incels, and Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn. The first movie made over a billion dollars at the box office, but from the sounds of it, Joker: Folie à Deux (not to be confused with Hot Shots! Part Deux), won’t come close to that.

A big reason why the movie’s box office take is expected to be so paltry is that this movie is a musical, and likely won’t appeal to viewers who loved the “Scorsese karaoke cover” vibe of the original.

This baffling, possibly self-defeating take on the material isn’t all that surprising if you’re familiar with the work of Todd Phillips, a guy who began his career with a documentary that was funded through the...

This article contains discussion surrounding the real-life crimes of Jeffrey Dahmer and John Wayne Gacy, including pedophilia and murder.

Netflix's Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story details the life and crimes of Jeffrey Dahmer, but it also features another one of history's most prolific serial killers: John Wayne Gacy. Known as the Killer Clown, Gacy was convicted of sexually assaulting and killing 33 boys and young men in Chicago, Illinois, throughout the 1970s. When he wasn't on the prowl, he was known for donning an alternate persona Pogo the Clown and volunteering in children's hospitals. The Monster John Wayne Gacy appearance shocked viewers and caused major questions, as it was supposed to be exclusively about Dahmer.

Though Jeffrey Dahmer denied any comparison between them, John Wayne Gacy and Jeffrey Dahmer had a fair bit in common. Gacy and Dahmer targeted young men, preferred strangulation as a killing method, hid remains within their own homes,...

Stephen Kings 1986 horror novel It has had multiple vastly different adaptations while continuing to focus on the fear of its terrifying clown, and not everyone knows that there was a real-life Pennywise who inspired this monster. While the story contains various themes of the paranormal, supernatural, and even science-fiction, the real-life inspiration that influenced Kings creation of Pennywise has remained the most horrific. The novel was initially adapted into a made-for-television miniseries, and in 2017 and 2019, Andy Muschietti took on the task of adapting the novel again for theatrical release.

Both found success among King fans. Staying true to the source material, both follow the Losers Club as children and adults as they battle an evil clown known as Pennywise, who is murdering children in the town of Derry, Maine. While King was writing the novel, the influences of his surroundings and the headlines plastered all over news stations impacted the creature.

Ahead of the highly anticipated return of Ryan Murphy's Monster anthology series, Netflix already has season 3 on the brain. On Sept. 16, the streamer announced that Sons of Anarchy star Charlie Hunnam will lead Monster season 3 as serial killer Ed Gein. Murphy shared the exciting news of Hunnam's casting and season 3's subject during the Monsters season 2 premiere.

According to Netflix's press release about the casting and new serial killer subject, Monster season 3 will begin production "next month," which puts the show on pace for an October 2024 filming start. Additional information about the upcoming third season will surely arrive once cameras start rolling, including more cast additions and a more detailed looked at what to expect from the season.

The first season of Monster, which centered on Jeffrey Dahmer and starred Evan Peters, was a huge success for Netflix, becoming a viewership hit and and an Emmy Award winner in...

Netflixs hit serial true-crime anthology show, Monster, has announced its plans for season 3. Created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, season 1 was titled Dahmer - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story and premiered in September 2022. Following its original release, Monster season 1 quickly amassed massive viewership numbers and would even become Netflixs second most-watched English language series within 28 days. Season 2, dubbed Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menndez Story, is slated to make its own streaming debut on September 19.

With season 2s release just days away, series co-creator Murphy (via Variety) has revealed that Monster season 3 has selected its new subject and leading star. Speaking at a promotional event for Monster season 2, Murphy announced that season 3 will focus on the infamous 1950s serial killer Ed Gein. Additionally, he revealed that Charlie Hunnam, best known for his role as Jax Teller in Sons of Anarchy, has been selected to play Gein.

Monsters Latest Subject...

The second season of Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan's hit Monster anthology series is coming to Netflix very soon. We're talking about Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, and it's set to be released on the streaming platform on Sept. 19.

The first season, Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, focused on the life and crimes of one of America’s most infamous serial killers, Jeffrey Dahmer. Due to the show's major success, Netflix decided to renew it for two additional seasons in November 2022. Season 2 will revolve around the high-profile murder case of real-life brothers, Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted of the murders of their parents, José and Mary Louise "Kitty" Menéndez, in 1996.

Nicholas Chavez will play Lyle Menéndez in the series, while Cooper Koch will portray Erik Menéndez. They're joined in the main cast by Javier Bardem, Chloë Sevigny, Nathan Lane, Ari Graynor, Dallas Roberts,...

If youve already finished binging Face to Face with Scott Peterson and are tired of hearing about American serial killers like John Wayne Gacy in Devil in Disguise, then Peacock has a brand-new docuseries that youll want to add to your queue. This time, the streamer will be taking audiences around the world in a series titled Worlds Most Notorious Killers. While those of us living in the U.S. have heard plenty about Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer, there may be some who have never heard about the spine-chilling torture and murder committed by Englands most infamous killer couple, Fred and Rose West or the kidnappings and killings of the Belgian man known as The Monster. Today, Collider has an exclusive first look at the trailer for the five-part docuseries, showing which names audiences can expect to hear about when the title drops on September 17.

If the horror genre can do one thing right, it is produce some compelling and well-structured villains. However, it is almost too common for a lot of these villains to be reflective of some controversial tropes and characterizations. Whereas a decent selection of horror (and equally non-horror) villains prior to the 1980s could be argued to feed upon queer stereotypes and allegories, the films of this decade began to be quite egregious in how they characterized some horror villains.

Following the sensationalized arrest and trial of one particular American serial killer, the accompanying moral panic appeared to trigger something within the minds of Hollywood horror writers. On the 6th of February 1980, the infamous killer, John Wayne Gacy was brought to trial, charged with the murders of 33 young men and boys. The trial, twinned with a developing Satanic panic, facilitated a toxic culture that gave birth to a growing pattern of...

Youve heard of Ted Bundy, Jeffrey Dahmer, and John Wayne Gacy, but Investigation Discoverys latest docuseries is telling the horrifying tale of a lesser-known serial killer. Born Evil: The Serial Killer and The Savior kicked off its three-night run earlier tonight when it began unraveling the heinous acts committed by American serial killer, Hadden Clark. Executive produced by Michael Bay, who can be heard throughout the production interviewing the murderer, the production undoubtedly has audiences at the edge of their seats waiting for the next part of the story to roll out tomorrow night. Luckily for those who struggle with patience, weve got an exclusive look at what tomorrow has in store when Clarks mother enters the conversation.

In the past few years, there have been multiple documentaries and docuseries revisiting high-profile cases long after the fact: Lorena Bobbitt (“Lorena”), the Menendez Brothers (“Menendez & Menudo: Boys Betrayed”), JonBenét Ramsey (“JonBenét Ramsey: What Really Happened?”), Casey Anthony (“Casey Anthony: Where the Truth Lies”), Jared Vogel (“Jared from Subway: Catching a Monster”), boy band creator Lou Perlman (“Dirty Pop”), Brian Peck (“Quiet on the Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV”), Sherri Papini (“The Perfect Wife”), and Gypsy Rose Blanchard (“The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard”), just to name a few. And the trend isn’t limited to docs — Todd Haynes’s 2023 feature film “May December” offered a fascinating fictional version of the Mary Kay Letourneau story after 20-plus years.

The most recent entry in the cycle is the Laci Peterson story, which met its 20th anniversary of the trial this month with two docuseries, “American Murder: Laci Peterson...

Back in June, it was announced that Michael Chernus (Severance) had been cast to play serial killer John Wayne Gacy in the Peacock limited series Devil in Disguise, which is inspired by the 2021 Peacock docuseries John Wayne Gacy: Devil in Disguise, produced by NBC News Studios. Now Variety has revealed the names of five more cast members. They are: Gabriel Luna (The Last of Us), James Badge Dale (1923), Michael Angarano (Red State), Chris Sullivan (Mercy), and Marin Ireland (Hell or High Water).

Gacy murdered 33 young men between 1972 and 1978. According to Variety, this limited series will peel back the twisted layers of Gacy’s life while weaving in heartrending stories of his mostly gay victims; exploring the grief, guilt, and trauma of their families and friends; and exposing the systemic failures, missed opportunities and societal prejudices that fueled his reign of terror.

As mentioned, Gacy is set to be played by Chernus.