On September 13, 1978, television audiences witnessed a shocking encounter on the popular game show The Dating Game. Host Jim Lange introduced Rodney Alcala as “a successful photographer” who enjoyed skydiving and riding motorcycles. Unbeknownst to the contestant, Cheryl Bradshaw, and the viewers at home, they were looking at the face of a serial killer. This chilling revelation is the focus of the new film Woman of the Hour, featuring Anna Kendrick as a fictionalized version of Bradshaw, which dramatizes her encounter with the notorious killer.
Alcala, who was convicted of seven murders, is now believed to have been involved in over 100 total killings, marking him as one of the most dangerous criminals in history. Before his appearance on The Dating Game, his charm and looks allowed him to blend into society, nearly putting him within reach of another potential victim.
The intertwining stories of Alcala and Bradshaw serve as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers lurking behind seemingly ordinary facades. The film sheds light on the past, prompting viewers to reflect on the vulnerabilities of individuals in a world where appearances can be deceiving.
Alcala's Troubling Past
Before appearing on The Dating Game, Rodney Alcala was already a registered sex offender. Authorities were unaware of the full extent of his crimes, which included the murder of four women by 1977. Born in August 1943 in San Antonio, Texas, Alcala exhibited troubling behavior from his teenage years. He was discharged from the U.S. Army in 1964 after suffering a mental breakdown and was diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder, later attending college in California.
In 1968, he committed his first known violent crime, luring eight-year-old Tali Shapiro into his car under false pretenses. After sexually assaulting her, he brutally attacked her with a steel bar before fleeing the scene. Alcala was eventually placed on the FBI’s Most Wanted list following his evasion of capture, using the alias “John Berger.”
Alcala's criminal history only deepened after he was arrested and convicted of child molestation in 1972. Despite being incarcerated, he was granted parole by 1974, which allowed him to continue his reign of terror and commit further violent acts.
A Disturbing Presence on Set
During his audition for The Dating Game, Alcala's charm was palpable, but there was something unsettling about him. Producer Mike Metzger sensed an uncomfortable mystique surrounding Alcala, while casting director Ellen Metzger believed he would appeal to female viewers. Moments before going on air, Alcala displayed more warning signs, with fellow contestant Jed Mills referring to him as a “real creepy guy.”
When it was time for Alcala to interact with Bradshaw, he made suggestive comments that were characteristic of the show's provocative nature. During the game, he compared himself to a banana, telling Bradshaw to “peel” him, a line that was deemed both raunchy and flirtatious. This behavior was encouraged by the show's producers, who sought to create a sexier atmosphere compared to their competitors.
Despite his winning charm, Alcala's unsettling demeanor left many feeling uneasy, foreshadowing the disaster that could have followed if Bradshaw had not trusted her instincts.
The Intuition That Saved a Life
In a surprising turn, Bradshaw chose Alcala as her date, expressing her fondness for bananas in a playful exchange. Their date was planned to include tennis lessons and a visit to Magic Mountain, a popular theme park. However, after further interaction post-show, Bradshaw's enthusiasm quickly dwindled, prompting her to call the show's producers the next day to cancel.
She shared her discomfort with Metzger, stating, “There’s weird vibes that are coming off of him. He’s very strange. I am not comfortable.” Her intuition is widely credited with saving her life, though protocols ensured that every contestant had a chaperone for their first meeting.
Reflecting on the encounter years later, producer David Greenfield remarked on the eerie feeling he had while watching the show, knowing the hidden danger Alcala posed. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting one's instincts in uncomfortable situations.
The Downfall of a Serial Killer
Alcala’s rejection by Bradshaw may have fueled his violent tendencies, as less than a year later, he was arrested in connection with the murder of 12-year-old Robin Samsoe. Law enforcement connected Alcala to the crime due to his extensive criminal history and his known habit of photographing children. He was twice convicted of Samsoe’s murder in 1980 and again in 1986, receiving a death sentence.
However, the legal system remained complicated for Alcala. After a federal appeals court overturned his sentence in 2003, DNA evidence linked him to four additional murder victims, all women who were murdered between 1977 and 1979. Ultimately, Alcala was convicted of five murders in 2010, though the true number of his victims may never be known. Authorities estimate he could be responsible for up to 130 deaths.
Rodney Alcala died of natural causes in July 2021 at a hospital near Corcoran State Prison in California, never facing execution for his heinous crimes.
Explore the Story on Netflix
If you're intrigued by this chilling tale, you can now watch Woman of the Hour on Netflix, which delves into the complexities of victimization and societal negligence. Director Anna Kendrick emphasizes that the film is not just a recounting of Alcala's story, but also a commentary on how popular culture often overlooks the victims of violent crime.
“I really like the complicated journey of a woman who is shrinking herself and being very pleasing and then manages to rebel and take back some power,” Kendrick stated. This narrative invites you to reflect on the delicate balance between authenticity and safety in everyday life.
As the film begins streaming, it stars Kendrick alongside Daniel Zovatto as Alcala and Tony Hale as the fictional host, Ed Burke, adding layers to this haunting story of survival and resilience.
Table of Contents
- Alcala's Troubling Past
- A Disturbing Presence on Set
- The Intuition That Saved a Life
- The Downfall of a Serial Killer
- Explore the Story on Netflix
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Rodney Alcala |
| Date of Birth | August 1943 |
| Nationality | American |
| Known For | Serial Killings |
| Crimes | Convicted of seven murders, suspected in over 100 |
| Death | July 2021 |
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