Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut, ‘Woman of the Hour,’ delves into the chilling true story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who appeared on the popular dating show ‘The Dating Game’ in 1978. The documentary explores the shocking revelation that a charming contestant would later be convicted of multiple murders.
‘Woman of the Hour’ is a powerful documentary that sheds light on the dark side of reality television. It also explores how something seemingly innocent can take a dark turn in an instant.
Rodney Alcala Won A Date With Bachelorette Cheryl Bradshaw On The Show
Rodney Alcala managed to deceive those around him, including the producers and contestants of ‘The Dating Game.’ Despite his dark past, Alcala was able to present himself as a desirable and eligible bachelor. He was introduced as a “successful photographer who got his start when his father found him in the darkroom at the age of 13, fully developed” by the host.
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In his 1978 episode, Alcala was paired with Cheryl Bradshaw. Cheryl was a bachelorette who was tasked with choosing the most appealing suitor. Moreover, the two shared raunchy jokes together. Alcala’s witty and confident demeanor impressed Bradshaw, who ultimately selected him as her winner.
However, unbeknownst to Bradshaw, Alcala was a dangerous predator with a history of violence. He had already been arrested twice for the rape of a young girl and the assault of a 13-year-old. Additionally, he was linked to the murders of several women. Cheryl Bradshaw was initially excited about the prospect of going on a date with him.
However, she had an uneasy feeling about him and ultimately decided to cancel their plans. She said, ‘Ellen, I can’t go out with this guy. There’s weird vibes that are coming off of him. He’s very strange. I am not comfortable. Is that going to be a problem?‘” recalled Ellen Metzger, the contestant coordinator, while talking to ABC News.
All About Rodney Alcala Aka ‘The Dating Game Killer’
The notorious serial killer Rodney James Alcala known as ‘The Dating Game Killer’, died of natural causes on July 24, 2021, while awaiting execution in California. He was 77 years old at the time. Alcala was sentenced to death in 2010 for the murders of five women in California.
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This included a 12-year-old girl. However, his true victim count is believed to be much higher. Authorities have estimated that he may have killed up to 130 people across the country as reported by AP News. Alcala was a cunning and manipulative individual who used his charm and charisma to lure his victims into his traps.
He was known to stalk his victims and take earrings as trophies from some of them. “You’re talking about a guy who is hunting through Southern California looking for people to kill because he enjoys it,” prosecutor Matt Murphy said during Alcala’s trial.
Alcala’s crimes were eventually uncovered through DNA evidence as he took the victim’s pictures and earrings as trophies. This linked him to the murders of several women. He was sentenced to death in 2010. However, his sentence was delayed due to appeals and legal challenges.
