Michael Chernus Reveals Why He Cut Back Watching True Crime Documentaries After Playing John Wayne Gacy (Exclusive)

Michael Chernus Reflects on Reducing True Crime Documentary Consumption Post-Playing John Wayne Gacy

Michael Chernus, renowned for his versatile roles, recently shared his experience of cutting back on watching true crime documentaries after portraying the notorious John Wayne Gacy. The talented actor, aged 48, stepped into the shoes of the “Killer Clown” in the acclaimed limited-series drama “Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy” on Peacock, released on Oct. 16. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Chernus revealed how his perspective on true crime media shifted following his involvement in the scripted series.

The actor confessed that he was initially drawn into the world of true crime through the popular podcast “Serial,” which sparked his and his wife’s, Emily Simoness, interest in true crime documentaries during the peak of the COVID-19 lockdown. While they found intrigue in the intricate plotlines involving cults and serial killers, Chernus admitted that his portrayal of Gacy reshaped his approach to consuming true crime content. He emphasized the importance of highlighting the victim’s perspective, their lives, and the broader impact of such heinous crimes on families and communities.

Chernus’s role in “Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy” shed light on the chilling crimes committed by the serial killer, including the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of 33 boys and young men. The new drama series delves into the grim discovery of bodies concealed in Gacy’s home in suburban Illinois, providing a glimpse into the victims’ stories leading up to their tragic fates. Moreover, the show consciously avoids glorifying violence on screen in an effort to steer clear of sensationalizing Gacy’s atrocities.

Growing up in the aftermath of Gacy’s reign of terror in the neighbouring state of Ohio, Chernus reflects on the pervasive fear instilled in communities and the impact on national discourse during that era. He recollects the unsettling case of Amy Mihaljevic, a 10-year-old girl who disappeared from a shopping centre near his hometown in 1989, leaving a lasting mark on his early years. These personal encounters with real-life horrors deeply influenced Chernus’s portrayal of Gacy, instilling a sense of responsibility in portraying the victims’ tragic stories authentically.

In contrast to his previous light-hearted roles, such as Cal Chapman in “Orange is the New Black,” and Ricken Hale in “Severance,” Chernus found himself navigating the complex depths of Gacy’s sinister persona. The actor acknowledges the challenging task of embodying Gacy’s dual nature – a charming public facade concealing his malevolent intentions – presenting a stark departure from his past character portrayals. Chernus’s commitment to authenticity led him to forgo method acting for the role, prioritizing the well-being of his family and co-workers during the intense filming process in Toronto.

Through his transformative experience portraying one of America’s most infamous serial killers, Chernus advocates for a more empathetic and victim-focused approach in true crime storytelling. As he recalibrates his viewing preferences to honour the memories of the victims and their families, Chernus’s journey stands as a testament to the profound impact of immersing oneself in the darker facets of human nature, both onscreen and off.

In conclusion, Michael Chernus’s introspective journey serves as a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling in shedding light on the complexities of crime and its lasting repercussions on individuals and society at large. His nuanced portrayal of Gacy underscores the importance of ethical storytelling and empathetic narratives that honour the voices of the silenced and the forgotten. As audiences navigate the realm of true crime documentaries, Chernus’s story resonates as a call to approach these narratives with sensitivity, compassion, and a deep reverence for the lives affected by tragedy.