Shockingly True? Uncover the Real Story Behind Netflix’s ‘Dating Game’ Killer Film!

One of the most peculiar events in television’s history is when a noted serial murderer, Rodney Alcala, appeared on ABC’s “The Dating Game” and won a date with Cheryl Bradshaw. Netflix’s new film, “Woman of the Hour,” directed, produced, and starring Anna Kendrick, offers a unique perspective on this weird historical event. Kendrick’s character, Sheryl, mirrors the actual Cheryl Bradshaw, who survived her encounter with the killer, Rodney Alcala, played by Daniel Zovatto.

However, when it comes to cinematic storytelling of real-life events, artistic license is often exercised. Here’s a comparison between the real Rodney Alcala case and “Woman of the Hour” to determine the reality and the fiction in the film.

Alcala’s Employment at the Los Angeles Times

“Woman of the Hour” includes a scene portraying Alcala working at The Times in 1977, a year before his appearance on “The Dating Game”. His precise role at the newspaper is unclear, but he seems to impress his co-workers with tall tales of knowing Warren Beatty and showcasing his photography (often featuring nude women). The scene implies Alcala lied about his position at The Times to gain access to potential victims.

Despite his known criminal history and not using an alias, The Times hired Alcala as a typesetter in September 1977. An episode of “20/20” titled “The Dating Game Killer” confirmed that Alcala did bring photos of nude women to the office, perceived by coworkers as artistic rather than indicative of his mental state. At least one of his victims, Pamela Jean Lambson, met Alcala at The Times. Alcala’s employment ended before the murder of Robin Christine Samsoe in 1979.

The Dating Game Scenes’ Accuracy

The film takes considerable creative freedom in its depiction of “The Dating Game”. Some changes, such as making Alcala Bachelor No. 3 (he was in reality No. 1), are for dramatic effect. The prize is also altered to be an all-expenses-paid trip to Carmel, while in reality, it was tennis lessons and tickets to Magic Mountain theme park. However, one accurate detail is Alcala’s chilling line, “I always get my girl,” confirmed by fellow contestant Jed Mills.

Sheryl’s participation in “The Dating Game” to boost her acting career might seem odd today, but it was not unusual at the time. Other stars such as Sally Field, Farrah Fawcett, Steve Martin, Suzanne Somers, Burt Reynolds, and Arnold Schwarzenegger also appeared on the show before they achieved fame.

The most significant change in “The Dating Game” is Sheryl’s character. In the film, she asks her own questions, unlike the real Cheryl who followed the show’s conventions and played along flirtatiously.

Rodney’s Recognition in “The Dating Game”

A lot of the drama in “The Dating Game” scene comes not from the game but from Laura, an audience member who recognizes one of the bachelors as her friend’s murderer. She attempts to alert a security guard who, instead of taking her seriously, mocks her by directing her to a janitor.

Kendrick stated that Laura symbolizes those affected by such crimes and those who tried in vain to alert the authorities about Alcala. Several people reported Alcala for assaults and killings over more than a decade before he was finally arrested for good in July 1979.

Alcala had a criminal record even before his “The Dating Game” appearance, having served prison time for assaulting two girls and being a registered sex offender.

Alcala and Bradshaw’s Date

Although Alcala won “The Dating Game” and a date with the real Cheryl Bradshaw, the date never occurred. Bradshaw expressed discomfort about going out with Alcala the day after the episode was filmed. It’s doubtful that they went for a drink after the show, as depicted in the film.

Alcala’s Capture

Amy, the teenage runaway depicted in “Woman of the Hour,” is based on Monique Hoyt who escaped Alcala and reported him to the police. This led to his arrest in February 1979. However, while awaiting trial, Alcala was released on bail, during which he killed again. He was arrested for the last time on July 24, 1979, for the murder of 12-year-old Robin Samsoe. Alcala was sentenced to death, but after numerous appeals and trials, he remained in prison until 2019 when California imposed a moratorium on capital punishment. Alcala passed away in prison of natural causes in 2021.

Alcala was convicted of seven murders, but it’s believed he killed many more. The Huntington Beach Police Department released Alcala’s photographs in 2010, hoping to identify some of his victims. Some estimates suggest Alcala may have killed up to 130 people.