'Happy Face' Premieres, Exploring Trauma and Justice in True Crime

The Paramount+ series focuses on Melissa Moore's journey as the daughter of a serial killer, highlighting generational trauma and efforts to exonerate an innocent man.

The series, inspired by Melissa Moore's life, examines the emotional toll of being the daughter of serial killer Keith Jesperson, known as the 'Happy Face Killer.'
It critiques the true crime genre by prioritizing the perspectives of victims and their families over sensationalizing the perpetrator's crimes.
Dennis Quaid stars as Jesperson, while Annaleigh Ashford portrays Moore, emphasizing the complexities of their father-daughter relationship.
The show avoids graphic depictions of violence, focusing instead on the psychological and generational impact of Jesperson's crimes.
Premiering today on Paramount+, the series adapts Moore's autobiography and podcast, highlighting her advocacy for justice and victim awareness.

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The Hollywood Reporter

The Hollywood Reporter