“Happy Face,” a gripping new drama series inspired by real-life events, is set to premiere on Paramount+ on March 20th. The series, adapted from the iHeart Media podcast and Melissa Moore’s memoir “Shattered Silence,” delves into the tumultuous journey of a young woman forced to confront the horrifying truth about her father’s identity as a notorious serial killer. Melissa, whose life is irrevocably altered at the tender age of fifteen, spends her adult life grappling with the devastating secret, changing her name and severing all ties with her incarcerated father. “Happy Face” promises a suspenseful narrative, exploring the profound impact of a serial killer’s actions not only on his victims’ families but also on his own.
The series, executive produced by Robert and Michelle King, the acclaimed minds behind “The Good Wife” and “The Good Fight,” boasts a talented ensemble cast led by Annaleigh Ashford as Melissa and Dennis Quaid as the infamous “Happy Face Killer.” The narrative unfolds with Melissa’s estranged father inexplicably forcing his way back into her life, triggering a desperate race against time. An innocent man faces imminent execution for a crime Melissa believes her father committed, propelling her on a harrowing quest for the truth. This journey forces Melissa to confront the devastating legacy of her father’s actions and ultimately grapple with her own identity in the shadow of his monstrous deeds.
“Happy Face,” developed by showrunner and executive producer Jennifer Cacicio, known for her work on “Your Honor,” promises a nuanced and emotionally charged exploration of trauma, family secrets, and the enduring quest for justice. The series delves into the complexities of Melissa’s internal struggle, torn between the love she once held for her father and the revulsion she now feels towards his heinous crimes. Beyond the immediate suspense of the wrongful conviction storyline, “Happy Face” aims to portray the enduring impact of such trauma on individuals and families, offering a poignant reflection on the human capacity for both great evil and remarkable resilience.
The eight-episode series will premiere with a double episode release on March 20th, exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.S. and other international markets where the service is available. Subsequent episodes will be released weekly on Thursdays, culminating in the season finale on May 1st. This staggered release strategy allows viewers to immerse themselves in the unfolding drama and contemplate the ethical and emotional complexities presented by the narrative. The series promises to be a compelling exploration of the human condition, testing the boundaries of forgiveness, understanding, and the enduring power of family bonds in the face of unimaginable darkness.
Produced by CBS Studios in association with King Size Productions, iHeartPodcasts, and Semi-Formal Productions, “Happy Face” benefits from a strong production team, including executive producers Liz Glotzer, Melissa G. Moore herself, Conal Byrne, Will Pearson, Michael Showalter, and Jordana Mollick. This collaboration underscores the series’ commitment to authenticity and sensitivity in portraying a story rooted in real-life tragedy. The involvement of Melissa Moore in the production process ensures that her personal experience is respectfully represented, adding a layer of depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.
“Happy Face” invites viewers to embark on a challenging yet compelling journey into the heart of a family grappling with the devastating consequences of a dark secret. The series promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of identity, justice, and the enduring impact of trauma on the human psyche. With a strong cast, experienced production team, and a narrative based on a true story, “Happy Face” is poised to captivate audiences and spark meaningful conversations about the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.
