Premiering March 20, 2025, exclusively on Paramount+, Happy Face is a gripping true crime drama based on the haunting story of Melissa Moore, the daughter of notorious serial killer Keith Jesperson, also known as “Happy Face.” The series explores Melissa’s journey to confront her father’s horrific crimes and reclaim her identity, while delving into the psychological toll of growing up in the shadow of a murderer. With its mix of suspense, emotion, and true crime intrigue, Happy Face is a must-watch for fans of psychological dramas and real-life stories.
Featuring a stellar cast and a narrative that balances personal redemption with chilling revelations, Happy Face offers a unique perspective on the impact of crime on families and the resilience of the human spirit.
Get Familiar with the Cast of Happy Face
1- Annaleigh Ashford as Melissa
Annaleigh Ashford, born June 25, 1985, in Denver, Colorado, is a Tony Award-winning actress known for Masters of Sex and American Crime Story. As Melissa, Ashford delivers a powerhouse performance, capturing the character’s strength, vulnerability, and determination to confront her past.
Ashford’s portrayal of Melissa anchors the series, as her journey to understand her father’s crimes and heal from their impact drives the narrative. Her ability to convey both resilience and emotional depth makes Melissa a compelling protagonist.
2- Dennis Quaid as Happy Face (Keith Jesperson)
Dennis Quaid, born April 9, 1954, in Houston, Texas, is a Hollywood legend known for The Parent Trap, Far from Heaven, and The Day After Tomorrow. As Keith Jesperson, the infamous “Happy Face Killer,” Quaid brings a chilling intensity to the role.
Quaid’s performance adds menace and complexity to the series, as his portrayal of Jesperson captures the duality of a man capable of unspeakable crimes and the facade of normalcy he maintained.
3- James Wolk as Ben
James Wolk, born March 18, 1985, in Farmington Hills, Michigan, is known for Mad Men and Zoo. As Ben, Melissa’s supportive but conflicted husband, Wolk brings warmth and depth to the role.
Wolk’s performance adds emotional resonance to the series, as Ben’s unwavering support for Melissa highlights the importance of love and trust in overcoming trauma.
4- Carolyn Adair as Texas Waitress
Carolyn Adair, known for Supernatural and The X-Files, plays a Texas waitress who becomes a key figure in the investigation into Jesperson’s crimes. Adair’s portrayal of the character captures her resilience and determination.
Adair’s performance adds intrigue to the series, as her character’s testimony sheds light on Jesperson’s dark past.
5- Khiyla Aynne as Hazel
Khiyla Aynne, a rising actress, plays Hazel, a young woman whose life intersects with Melissa’s journey. Aynne’s portrayal of Hazel captures the character’s innocence and strength.
Aynne’s performance adds emotional weight to the series, as Hazel’s story reflects the broader impact of Jesperson’s crimes.
6- Benjamin Mackey as Max
Benjamin Mackey, known for The Man in the High Castle and The 100, plays Max, a journalist investigating Jesperson’s crimes. Mackey’s portrayal of Max captures the character’s determination and moral complexity.
Mackey’s performance adds tension to the series, as Max’s pursuit of the truth creates new challenges for Melissa and her family.
7- Connor Paton as Tyler
Connor Paton, known for Riverdale and The Order, plays Tyler, a young man whose life is affected by Jesperson’s crimes. Paton’s portrayal of Tyler captures the character’s vulnerability and resilience.
Paton’s performance adds depth to the series, as Tyler’s journey reflects the long-lasting impact of trauma.
8- River Codack as Josh
River Codack, known for The Good Doctor and Supernatural, plays Josh, a key figure in Melissa’s journey to uncover the truth. Codack’s portrayal of Josh captures the character’s loyalty and determination.
Codack’s performance adds emotional resonance to the series, as Josh’s support for Melissa highlights the importance of friendship and trust.
9- Philip Granger as Chave
Philip Granger, known for The X-Files and Supernatural, plays Chave, a retired detective with ties to the Jesperson case. Granger’s portrayal of Chave captures the character’s wisdom and regret.
Granger’s performance adds gravitas to the series, as Chave’s insights provide crucial clues in Melissa’s quest for answers.
10- Zara Nikou Sichani as Victoria
Zara Nikou Sichani, known for The 100 and The Man in the High Castle, plays Victoria, a survivor of Jesperson’s crimes. Sichani’s portrayal of Victoria captures the character’s strength and resilience.
Sichani’s performance adds emotional depth to the series, as Victoria’s story highlights the courage of survivors.
11- Jennifer Spence as Renee
Jennifer Spence, known for Stargate Universe and The Order, plays Renee, a therapist who helps Melissa navigate her trauma. Spence’s portrayal of Renee captures the character’s compassion and insight.
Spence’s performance adds warmth to the series, as Renee’s guidance provides a source of hope and healing for Melissa.
12- Ava Telek as Summer
Ava Telek, known for The Good Doctor and Supernatural, plays Summer, a young woman whose life is forever changed by Jesperson’s crimes. Telek’s portrayal of Summer captures the character’s innocence and strength.
Telek’s performance adds emotional weight to the series, as Summer’s journey reflects the long-lasting impact of trauma.
13- Marci T. House as Joyce
Marci T. House, known for The X-Files and Supernatural, plays Joyce, a detective working on the Jesperson case. House’s portrayal of Joyce captures the character’s determination and empathy.
House’s performance adds tension to the series, as Joyce’s pursuit of justice creates new challenges for Melissa and her family.
