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Episode guide

S13·E5 John Wayne Gacy: A Monster in Disguise

Episode
Season 13, Episode 5
Air Date
August 3, 1999
Runtime
50 minutes
Story Type
Core Character Arc
Core Aired August 3, 1999 50 min
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Synopsis

Examine the horrifying double life of one of America’s most notorious serial killers, presenting his crimes through a factual, victim‑centered lens. The episode traces how Gacy cultivated an image of a friendly suburban contractor and community volunteer — even performing as “Pogo the Clown” — while secretly committing acts of devastating violence against young men and boys. Through interviews with investigators, neighbors, and surviving family members, Biography details the painstaking police work that uncovered the truth beneath Gacy’s façade, leading to the discovery of dozens of victims buried beneath his home. Archival footage and case records reveal how his charm masked deep cruelty, and how his arrest shocked the nation. The program offers a sober, unsettling portrait of a predator who hid in plain sight, emphasizing the enduring impact on victims’ families and the community he terrorized.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When did Season 13 Episode 5 of Biography air?

Season 13, Episode 5 ('John Wayne Gacy: A Monster in Disguise') originally aired on August 3, 1999.

How long is Season 13 Episode 5 ('John Wayne Gacy: A Monster in Disguise')?

The runtime for this episode is approximately 50 minutes.

What happens in Biography Season 13 Episode 5?

Examine the horrifying double life of one of America’s most notorious serial killers, presenting his crimes through a factual, victim‑centered lens. The episode traces how Gacy cultivated an image of a friendly suburban contractor and community volunteer — even performing as “Pogo the Clown” — while...

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