Unveiling the Real Story of the Dating Game Killer in Netflix’s "Woman of the Hour"

Anna Kendrick recently made her directorial debut with the Netflix film "Woman of the Hour," which delves into the chilling true story of Rodney Alcala, an American serial killer who shockingly appeared on the popular TV show The Dating Game during his murderous spree in the 1970s. The movie focuses on Alcala’s fateful encounter with Cheryl Bradshaw, an aspiring actress, as they both became contestants on the dating program.

Kendrick, who also stars as Cheryl in the film, emphasized her intention to prioritize the stories of Alcala’s victims over glorifying the killer himself. She highlighted the complex journey of a woman breaking free from societal expectations and reclaiming power. Kendrick discussed the nuances of authenticity and the risks it entails in a recent interview with Netflix’s Tudum.

Rodney Alcala, born in San Antonio, Texas, spent his early years in Mexico before relocating to Los Angeles, California. His disturbing criminal history began with the abduction of eight-year-old Tali Shapiro in 1968. Despite being convicted of assaulting Shapiro, Alcala was later released on parole, leading to a series of heinous crimes across different states.

In a shocking turn of events, Alcala, a registered sex offender, was selected as a contestant on The Dating Game, where he ultimately won a date with Cheryl Bradshaw. However, Bradshaw declined to meet him after the show due to his unsettling behavior, reflecting the eerie vibes surrounding Alcala.

Alcala’s reign of terror extended to multiple states, with confirmed victims including young women like Robin Christine Samsoe and Christine Ruth Thornton. Despite his convictions for these murders, authorities suspect Alcala’s involvement in numerous other unsolved cases, as evidenced by a trove of disturbing photographs discovered in his possession.

After years on death row, Rodney Alcala passed away at the age of 77 from natural causes while hospitalized in Kings County. The closure brought relief to many, with Tali Shapiro expressing that the world is a better place without him.

The harrowing true story behind "Woman of the Hour" sheds light on the dark legacy of Rodney Alcala and the lasting impact of his atrocities. The film serves as a stark reminder of the importance of honoring the victims and confronting the realities of evil that lurk among us.