“Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy” – A Gripping True-Crime Drama You Won’t Forget. “Devil in Disguise” is here, and it’s not your typical serial killer story. This new eight-episode drama on Peacock takes a haunting, deeply human approach to the infamous case of John Wayne Gacy, the suburban contractor who led a double life as one of America’s most ruthless serial killers. 
From the very first episode, this series refuses to glamorize Gacy, focusing instead on the victims’ stories and the systemic failures that allowed his horrific crimes to go unnoticed for so long. Michael Chernus gives a chillingly restrained performance as Gacy, while an ensemble cast featuring Marin Ireland, Gabriel Luna, and James Badge Dale adds depth and emotional weight to this already powerful narrative. 
What sets this series apart is its victim-centric storytelling: “A gripping and unsettling triumph,” says critics. “Tough but important watch… exploring how ideas about masculinity enable horrible crimes like Gacy’s to happen.” It’s an honest, introspective, and thought-provoking examination of Gacy’s reign of terror, without falling into the trap of sensationalizing the killer. That said, the series has its flaws: some viewers noted the pacing can drag in spots and certain systemic critiques feel heavy-handed. But even so, it does what so many other true-crime dramas fail to do: it humanizes the victims, holds a mirror to society’s blind spots, and tells a story that avoids glorifying its subject
Peacock’s latest true-crime drama, “Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy”, is a gripping and chilling series that delves deep into the double life of one of America’s most notorious serial killers. Premiering on October 16, 2025, the eight-episode limited series dramatizes the life of John Wayne Gacy, a respected suburban contractor by day and a ruthless killer by night. The series doesn’t shy away from the darkness of Gacy’s crimes but focuses instead on the victims, the investigation, and the systemic failures that allowed his terror to continue unchecked for years.
A Unique Approach to a Familiar Story
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The series stands out from typical serial killer dramas by choosing not to glorify or sensationalize Gacy. Rather than focusing on the killer himself, it shines a much-needed spotlight on the victims’ stories, the cultural and institutional blind spots that allowed his killings to persist, and the investigation that ultimately brought him to justice. By avoiding the common trap of romanticizing its subject, the show feels like a refreshing departure from other true-crime dramas that often glamorize their killers.
Michael Chernus takes on the role of Gacy, portraying the infamous killer with chilling restraint. Instead of presenting Gacy as a showman, the performance allows for a more complex character — one that reveals the terrifying normalcy of a man who seamlessly blended into suburban life while harboring unspeakable horrors. Chernus’ portrayal is unsettling not because of over-the-top theatrics, but because of how calmly Gacy navigates his dual life.
Victim-Centered Storytelling
One of the most compelling aspects of “Devil in Disguise” is its victim-centric narrative. Rather than glorifying Gacy, the series gives voice to the young men whose lives were brutally taken, shedding light on their lives, their families, and the loss that continues to reverberate. The victims aren’t mere plot devices—they’re at the center of the story, and their humanity is brought into sharp focus.
Marin Ireland, Gabriel Luna, and James Badge Dale round out the stellar ensemble cast, each bringing complexity and depth to their roles, whether portraying law enforcement officials, family members, or other key figures in the investigation. Their performances elevate the material, giving emotional weight to the narrative and ensuring the audience remains connected to the human toll of Gacy’s actions.
Critics have praised the series for its ability to humanize the victims while examining the cultural and societal forces that allowed Gacy’s crimes to flourish. As one reviewer put it, “A gripping and unsettling triumph… avoids glamorizing its subject and instead exposes the disturbing normalcy behind Gacy’s double life.” The show highlights how toxic masculinity, societal expectations, and institutional failures all played roles in allowing Gacy to evade justice for as long as he did.
The Systemic Critiques and Pacing Issues
Despite its success in many areas, the series isn’t without its flaws. Some viewers have pointed out that the pacing of the show can feel uneven at times. Certain scenes that delve into procedural details or systemic critiques can occasionally feel a bit heavy-handed or overly verbose. While the intention is to highlight the cultural and institutional blindness that contributed to Gacy’s crimes, these moments can occasionally interrupt the flow of the story. However, these critiques do not detract from the overall power of the narrative.
A Must-Watch for True-Crime Enthusiasts and Horror Fans
So, do we recommend “Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy”? Absolutely. This series is a must-watch for true-crime aficionados, horror fans curious about real-life monsters, and anyone interested in a narrative shift that focuses on the victims, survivors, and societal context rather than sensationalizing the perpetrator. The subdued portrayal of Gacy, the strong performances, and the emphasis on the victims’ stories make it a standout in the genre.
While the show may not be for everyone—especially those who prefer more traditional true-crime stories focused on the killer—it’s a brave and necessary exploration of the crimes of John Wayne Gacy. “Devil in Disguise” proves that a true-crime drama can be unsettling, thought-provoking, and respectful all at once, making it a standout entry for both true-crime fans and those looking for something more emotionally resonant than typical genre fare.
