As a true crime enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for compelling stories that delve deep into the human psyche. Happy Face on Paramount+ is one such series that captivated me from the very beginning. This captivating series, which premiered on 20 March 2025, is inspired by the real-life story of Melissa Moore, daughter of the infamous “Happy Face Killer,” Keith Hunter Jesperson. The series dives deep into the dark intersections of family, trauma, and had me googling my heart out after I had watched it! I was left feeling compelled to write a review about it, just like I had with Maid!
At 15, Melissa discovered that her father was the infamous “Happy Face Killer,” a revelation that turned her world upside down. The series, inspired by her memoir Shattered Silence and the Happy Face podcast, follows Melissa (portrayed by Annaleigh Ashford) as she confronts her past when her father (played by Dennis Quaid) reaches out from prison with information about a previously undisclosed murder. This premise sets the stage for a gripping narrative that intertwines personal struggle with a quest for justice.
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There are so many paths in the series, it is really well put together and is based on the true stories of Melissa too. Watching her journey with this, her career and family and the struggles she has with her father. Seeing how her daughter deals with it and the need to see him (even though he was bad) is something that hit close to home. As some of you may know I didn’t meet my own father until I was in my late twenties! I guess I could relate to some of the connotations in the show more than I care to let on.
I love the other main story in this show too, Melissa’s passion to save a free man from jail as her father confessed to it. The lengths she goes to and determination really comes through the screen. I really enjoyed the twists in the storyline too, I assume some written for entertainment value and others because it actually happened!
Check out the Happy Face podcast and book: Shattered Silence by Melissa G Moore!
Happy Face is more than just another true crime series; it’s a heartfelt exploration of a daughter’s journey to reclaim her life from the shadows of her father’s sins. For fans of the genre, it’s a must-watch that offers both suspense and emotional depth. I will be buying Melissa’s book after watching the show and listening to her podcast too, what an inspirational lady and I am glad she was able to shine through some really dark times in her life.
