A killer’s smile captured the world’s attention and Handsome Devil: Charming Killer, a three-part docuseries on Paramount, exposes how Wade Wilson used his looks and charisma to mask horrifying crimes.
Directed by Brian Ross and Rhonda Schwartz, the series revisits Wilson’s 2019 murders and the media frenzy that surrounded his trial, which ended with him receiving the death penalty. Unlike most murder cases, this one went viral not just for its brutality, but for the unsettling allure of the killer himself.
During the trial, Wade Wilson amassed thousands of fans, with some women admitting in the docuseries that they felt drawn to him despite knowing the horrific crimes he committed.
The series presents Wade Wilson’s statements, testimonies from those affected, and the lasting impact on the victims’ families.
The opening scene sets the chilling tone, showing Wilson smiling a charm that fooled many into believing he could be “fixed.” Dubbed the “Deadpool Killer” because he shares a name with Ryan Reynolds’ superhero character, Wilson even received love letters while behind bars. But the series quickly reminds viewers why he was convicted.
The first episode focuses on October 6, 2019, in Fort Myers, Florida. Wade was outside a local club with his girlfriend, Mila Montanez, before taking her car to do drugs. The next morning, he returned to her spa, leading to a violent confrontation that left her injured.
Police tracked him but did not pursue him, unaware that he had already murdered Kristine Melton and would soon kill Diane Ruiz. Their bodies were later discovered after missing persons reports were filed.
Wade went into hiding but contacted his biological father, Steven Testasecca, who bravely alerted authorities and even visited Wade in jail to persuade him to reveal Diane’s body.
During the meeting, Wade recounted the gruesome details of her murder, including strangulation and running her over with a car multiple times.
The docuseries opts for a direct, factual approach rather than cinematic flair, but its chilling effect lies in the stark contrast between Wade’s charm and his brutality.
Mila Montanez provides candid insight into the relationship, admitting she initially dismissed warning signs despite past assaults.
As the series unfolds, it becomes clear how Wade’s charisma manipulated others, earning him sympathy and attention while overshadowing the victims. Yet, the docuseries also highlights Steven Testasecca’s courage in turning his son in and obtaining a confession, and Mila’s bravery in speaking on camera about giving Wade multiple chances. The haunting soundtrack, including “Something About This Just Isn’t Right”, intensifies the disturbing narrative.
Handsome Devil: Charming Killer is a gripping exploration of how beauty and charm can mask true evil but it also honors those who acted courageously to bring justice to the victims.
