Peacock's Devil in Disguise Explores John Wayne Gacy Murders, Highlights Systemic Failures

Peacock's "Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy" is a crime drama series that reframes the notorious serial killer's story by focusing on the victims and their families rather than sensationalizing Gacy himself. Created by Patrick Macmanus and inspired by a 2021 docuseries, it portrays Gacy as a community figure who hid his crimes behind a facade, while exposing systemic failures and prejudice by law enforcement that allowed his abuse of marginalized victims to persist. The series consciously omits graphic violence to emphasize empathy and remembrance, highlighting the ripple effects of loss on families and communities. It also critiques the victim-blaming attitudes of authorities at the time, underscoring the broader societal neglect of working-class, immigrant, and LGBTQ+ victims. Macmanus emphasizes the series as a cautionary tale about the consequences when those responsible for protection ignore marginalized voices. Overall, the show aims to transform horror into a respectful commemoration of those affected by Gacy’s crimes.