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Is ITV's Devil in Disguise based on a real story?
Reach Daily Express | January 31, 2026 1:39 AM CST

A chilling crime drama with an impressive Rotten Tomatoes score of 96% is now available to stream for free.

Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy chronicles the horrifying tale of the American serial killer across eight episodes. Following its initial US release last year, it arrives on ITV and ITVX today (January 30).

The programme will broadcast weekly at 9pm on ITV1 and STV. However, those eager to watch the entire series in one sitting can access all eight episodes immediately on ITVX and STV Player, reports the Mirror.

The series promises: "Prepare to take a deep dive into the mind and life of one of America's most notorious serial killers with this drama that tells the terrifying story of John Wayne Gacy.

"From 1972-1978, thirty-three young men were kidnapped, murdered, and buried in a crawl space beneath their killer's house. And no one was the wiser. Not for all those years. Why? He was charming and funny."

"Had a good, All-American job. Was a community leader. He even volunteered to entertain sick kids... while dressed as a clown.

"Devil In Disguise: John Wayne Gacy peels back the twisted layers of Gacy's life while weaving in heartrending stories of his victims; exploring the grief, guilt, and trauma of their families and friends; and exposing the systemic failures, missed opportunities, and societal prejudices that fuelled his reign of terror."

The series has already been a hit with viewers, as one person said: "Honestly, one of the most harrowing and distressing things I've ever seen. Each episode takes time to honour and bring back to life one or more of the victims."

Yes, the ITV drama draws from the real-life case of infamous American serial killer John Wayne Gacy, who murdered young men and boys during the 1970s. Whilst a dramatised account of his life and offences, it remains rooted in actual events.

Dubbed the Killer Clown due to Gacy's habit of dressing as one whilst volunteering at community events, he preyed upon young men, sexually assaulting many before taking their lives. He evaded detection between 1972 and 1978.

The series has already been a hit with viewers, as one person said: "Honestly, one of the most harrowing and distressing things I've ever seen. Each episode takes time to honour and bring back to life one or more of the victims."

Over a six-year killing spree, Gacy claimed the lives of 33 young men, burying them beneath his Chicago home in a mass grave. Living a double life, Gacy harboured an obsession with clowns, frequently adopting that guise to capture his victims.

It wasn't until 1978 that authorities apprehended him, prompting his confession. His arrest followed the disappearance of teenager Robert Piest, Gacy's last victim, which drew investigators' suspicion towards him.

In 1980, he was found guilty of murdering 33 young men and handed a death sentence, ultimately receiving a lethal injection at the age of 52 in 1994.

Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy airs tonight at 9pm on ITV.


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