The Westside Ripper is a character from The wry and satirical Peacock comedy Based on a True Story, created and written by Craig Rosenberg, its based on true crime genre and humorously highlights society’s current obsession with it. Starring Kaley Cuoco, Chris Messina, and Tom Bateman.
Craig Rosenberg, the creator of the show, is no stranger to dark TV satires. You may recognize his name from his involvement in the hugely successful series, The Boys. With his knack for blending humor and darkness, it’s no surprise that he has ventured into the realm of true crime satire.
The Westside Ripper: Fiction or Reality?
The show introduces the character known as the Westside Ripper, who terrorizes women in Los Angeles. Portrayed by Tom Bateman, known for his roles in “Death on the Nile” and “Thirteen Lives,” the character has piqued the curiosity of viewers.
As fans of the true crime genre, it’s natural to wonder if the Westside Ripper is based on a real serial killer. In a show that cleverly explores society’s fascination with true crime, one may speculate if the creator drew inspiration from actual notorious killers.
Is the Westside Ripper based on a Real Serial Killer?
The Westside Ripper is a fictional character created for the Peacock series Based on a True Story. However, it’s worth noting that the character may embody elements inspired by various real-life serial killers.
Los Angeles, the setting of the show, has a dark history of serial killers, making it an intriguing backdrop for crime-related narratives. Notorious individuals such as the Skid Row Slasher, the Scorecard Killer, the Hillside Strangler, the Night Stalker, and the Grim Sleeper have left their mark on the city’s crime history. It’s possible that the Westside Ripper draws influences from these chilling figures.
With such a dense population of serial killers in Los Angeles, one can’t help but wonder why people choose to live there, despite the city’s association with these horrifying crimes.
Possible Influences: The Gorilla Man
Among the mentioned serial killers, one particular murderer bears resemblance to the Westside Ripper. True crime enthusiasts have speculated that the character may be based on The Gorilla Man, also known as Earle Nelson.
Operating in the early twentieth century, Earle Nelson holds the grim distinction of being the first known serial killer of that era. His preferred method involved responding to room rental advertisements, visiting the properties, and then brutally murdering the unsuspecting landladies.
Earle Nelson’s reign of terror lasted from 1926, and he was ultimately held responsible for twenty-two murders. His heinous crimes shocked the nation and left a lasting imprint on the annals of criminal history.
While the Westside Ripper in Based on a True Story may be a fictional character, its creation was likely influenced by the chilling tales of real-life serial killers. This blending of reality and fiction reminds us of the dark side of human nature and the perpetual fascination with true crime.
