S1 Ep11: Rodney Alcala, The Dating Game Killer

Devils in the Dark

Helen Anderson and Danni Howard take a look at one of the worst killers in history, the Dating Game killer, Rodney Alcala. After ‘reforming’ twice, Rodney was free to roam The United States, studying under Roman Polanski, and killing an unimaginable number of young girls and women… oh, and he had time to star on American reality TV dating show The Dating Game too. Expect the worst self defence since Ted Bundy and the creepiest game show contestant you’ve ever heard.

Devils in The Dark contains graphic details of sexual assault and violence, including against children, and is not intended for all audiences. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

00:00 - Introduction

09:19 - Where Rodney’s story begins

13:43 - Rodney’s first known assault

18:47 - Rodney’s first stint in jail

19:40 - The ‘reformed’ Rodney

22:05 - The murder of Ellen Hover

24:43 - The murder of Jill Parenteau

25:41- The murder of Robin Samsoe

30:19 - The Dating Game

35:25 - Rodney is arrested

35:59 - The discovery of the storage locker

38:57 - A shocking conviction U-Turn

41:24 - DA Matt Murphy steps up to the plate

44:41 - Rodney Alcala decided to represent himself at trial

49:07 - Brand new evidence

50:22 - The final verdict

52:45 - Outro

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Follow Helen Anderson at @helenanderz and Danni Howard at @thatdannihoward. Special thanks to Woodcut Media. See audioboom.com/about/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Produced by Alexandra Jueno at Audioboom Studios.

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this week’s episode please consider contacting the following resources:

The Samaritans helpline: 116 123

Confidential Emotional Support Line: 01708 765200

Rape Crisis Helpline: 0808 802 9999 (help is also available at live chat at https://rapecrisis.org.uk/get-help/live-chat-helpline/ *times apply)

Sexual Assault Support Line: 01708 765200