Episode 05: Bachelor #1

Our latest episode of "Super Sus" begins with a deep dive into the world of serial killers, sparked by Ande's recent experience at an insightful lecture by criminologist Dr. Scott Bond. The discussion laid the groundwork for understanding the criminal psyche, offering a glimpse into the dark motivations and patterns that define these dangerous individuals. From his insights, we explore the intricate and often chilling details that make these figures a profound area of public fascination—and fear.

The Illusion of Charm

Rewind to September 13th, 1978, where audiences were captivated by "The Dating Game," a show brimming with laughter and flirtatious banter as three eligible bachelors competed for one bachelorette’s favor. Among the contestants stood Rodney Alcala, a seemingly charming figure introduced as a successful photographer—yet hiding a sinister past.

Cheryl Bradshaw, an aspiring actress at the time, chose Alcala based on his charismatic display on the show. Their prize was a date at Magic Mountain with tennis lessons—a setup masking a lurking danger. Unbeknownst to the producers and their screening processes, Alcala was a registered sex offender, already deep into a vicious killing spree.

Reality Behind the Camera

Alcala’s participation in "The Dating Game" wasn’t a mere testament to his supposed charm but a chilling extension of his manipulative prowess. By this time, he was already responsible for at least seven murders and possibly as many as 130, according to sources like The Washington Post. Cheryl, trusting her intuitive unease about Alcala, chose to break off contact—decisively a life-saving decision.

The Chilling Past

Rodney Alcala's criminal ventures extended back into the late 1960s. From brutal attacks on young women like Morgan Rowan to his pattern of luring victims under the guise of photography, Alcala's crimes became increasingly despicable. Often, he would strangle victims until unconscious only to restart his assault after reviving them—an appalling aspect brought to life vividly in the film "Woman of the Hour."

In this episode's beginning, our exploration unfolded through Ande's recount of the serial killer lecture, laying the groundwork for this in-depth focus on Alcala. Such discussions emphasize the horrific span of Alcala's actions and remind us of the critical role awareness and intuition play in apprehending such predators.

Join us as we continue unraveling this unsettling intersection of reality television and true crime in "Super Sus," with more details to follow in Part 2. This episode emphasizes the necessity of vigilance and trusting one's instincts, as the real evils often lurk behind the most unsuspecting facades.