Happy Face
True crime podcast review — 2026
"Happy Face is a uniquely courageous podcast — Melissa Moore refuses to be defined by her father's crimes, and in examining that relationship she illuminates something profound about violence, family, and survival."
Who is this podcast for?
- ✓Listeners who enjoy following a single case from start to finish
- ✓Those interested in the psychology of serial offenders
Pros
- +Rated "Must Listen" by our editorial team
- +Serialized format builds a compelling, sustained narrative arc across episodes
About this podcast
Melissa Moore — daughter of Keith Jesperson, the 'Happy Face Killer' who murdered at least eight women across America and taunted authorities with smiley-face letters — explores what it means to grow up as a serial killer's child, to love and forgive a monster, and to find purpose in the aftermath of inherited darkness.
Best episode to start with
Episode 1 — start from the beginning for full emotional impact
Serialized format — listen from the beginning for the full experience
Community ratings
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Frequently Asked Questions about Happy Face
What is Happy Face about?
Melissa Moore — daughter of Keith Jesperson, the 'Happy Face Killer' who murdered at least eight women across America and taunted authorities with smiley-face letters — explores what it means to grow up as a serial killer's child, to love and forgive a monster, and to find purpose in the aftermath of inherited darkness.
Is Happy Face worth listening to?
Our editorial verdict is "Must listen". The community has rated it 7.0/10 overall. True crime fans interested in the impact of crime on perpetrators' families; listeners who want to understand the psychology of survival and the ripple effects that extend far beyond the killers themselves.
Who is Happy Face for?
Happy Face is ideal for: Listeners who enjoy following a single case from start to finish; Those interested in the psychology of serial offenders.
What is the best episode of Happy Face to start with?
We recommend starting with Episode 1 — start from the beginning for full emotional impact. As a serialized show, it's best to listen from the beginning of a season.
What podcasts are similar to Happy Face?
If you enjoy Happy Face, you might also like: Root of Evil, Someone Knows Something, Uncover (CBC), America's Most Infamous Crimes with Katie Ring. See our full "Podcasts Like Happy Face" page for more recommendations.
Quick facts
- Format
- Serialized
- Host style
- Solo narrator
- Style
- Personal, reflective, profound
- Episode length
- Multiple seasons; episodes ~30-45 min; bingeable across a weekend
- Country
- United States
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