Since the Netflix special on Ted Bundy aired earlier this year, a fascination with Ted Bundy has spread across social media. The serial killer is known for killing more than 30 people in the 70’s. Back in the 70’s people were appalled that Ted Bundy was a serial killer, believing he was too charming and charismatic to be one.
After watching the documentary I went onto Twitter to see the first reactions of people that had seen it. Many tweets I saw weren’t talking about the horrifying crimes that Ted Bundy had done but rather about how attractive he was. People were tweeting things like, “Ted Bundy can get it though” and “I know he’s a murderer but we can say Ted Bundy is hot right?”
Shortly after the documentary aired, a movie about Ted Bundy was announced with Zach Efron as Ted Bundy. This created even more of a sexualization for Ted Bundy as many people sexualize Zach Efron. Ted Bundy killed and raped many people and we should not remember him as “the handsome one.” It’s completely repulsive especially to the victims and their families. So, what do you think? Is this Netflix’s fault for depicting Ted Bundy as a “handsome, charming” man?
This article points out a troubling issue with the way media portrayals can unintentionally glamorize serial killers like Ted Bundy. While his charm was part of how he deceived victims, focusing too much on his looks risks overshadowing the horror of his crimes and disrespecting his victims. It’s a poignant reminder that true crime storytelling must strike a balance between accuracy and sensitivity.
I personally blame Netflix for hiring attractive actors but on the other hand, I blame other people for handling the situation so immaturely. When issues such as rape, murder, and serial killers there shouldn’t be discusion on whether or not they actions are justified based on their physical appearances.
I think because there has been a rise in crime shows/movies people are starting to glorify and sexualize certain serial killers. Instead of the audience grasping the idea that these serial killers did something horribly wrong, they pay attention to how handsome they are or try to justify the reason why they murdered all those people. Also, having good looking and famous actors, such as Zac Efron and Evan Peters, play these serial killers does not help in reducing the normalization and sexualization of serial killers.