Netflix’s “Woman of the Hour” sheds light on the disturbing story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who not only participated in a popular dating game show in the ’70s but also won an episode. The show, directed by Anna Kendrick, focuses on Alcala’s murder spree throughout the decade and his encounter with Cheryl Bradshaw, a fellow contestant on The Dating Game.
Alcala’s criminal activities spanned several years, with his first confirmed victim being eight-year-old Tali Shapiro in 1968. Shapiro was lured into Alcala’s car and taken to his apartment, where she was assaulted. Fortunately, Shapiro survived the attack, and Alcala was convicted of assaulting her in 1972. He later went on parole, moved to New York City and New Hampshire, and even assumed a new identity as John Berger.
Despite being a registered sex offender, Alcala made an appearance as a contestant on The Dating Game in 1978. Described as a successful photographer, he won the episode but never went on the actual date with Cheryl Bradshaw, who found him to be creepy and refused to meet him. This incident highlighted the lax vetting process of the show, given Alcala’s criminal background.
Alcala was eventually arrested in 1979 and convicted of the murders of several women, including 12-year-old Robin Christine Samsoe in California and Jill Marie Parenteau in New York. He was also charged with the murder of Christine Ruth Thornton in 2016, but due to his age and health condition, he was not extradited to face the charges in Wyoming.
Although Alcala was convicted of killing at least seven people, authorities believe that the actual number of his victims could be much higher. The Huntington Beach Police Department released a collection of photos found in Alcala’s possession, featuring numerous unidentified young girls and women who may have been targeted by him.
After spending years on death row in California, Alcala passed away at the age of 77 due to natural causes while hospitalized in Kings County. His death brought a sense of closure to his victims and their families, with Tali Shapiro expressing relief that the world was now rid of him.
The case of Rodney Alcala serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers posed by individuals with criminal tendencies and the importance of thorough background checks, especially in high-profile settings like reality TV shows. It also underscores the resilience of survivors like Tali Shapiro, who have managed to move forward with their lives despite enduring traumatic experiences.
