When you think of Dennis Quaid, you might picture the friendly dad from "The Parent Trap" or any number of heartwarming roles he's played over the years. But now, the legendary actor takes on a darker side in "Happy Face," a Paramount+ original series that dives deep into the world of the notorious Happy Face Killer, Keith Hunter Jesperson. In a recent exclusive interview, Quaid opened up about his initial reluctance to take on this sinister role and what ultimately convinced him to say yes.

Why Dennis Quaid Almost Said No

At first glance, playing a serial killer might seem like a no-brainer for an actor looking to challenge themselves. But for Dennis Quaid, it wasn't so simple. "He disgusts me, to tell you the truth," the 70-year-old actor candidly told reporters during a press event. Quaid admitted that he wasn't initially interested in portraying such a dark character, especially one as infamous as Jesperson. "I'm not really into playing serial killers," he confessed. "But this was different. It wasn't just about the murders—it was about the relationship with his daughter and how the story is told from her point of view."

What Changed His Mind?

So, what made Dennis Quaid reconsider? It all came down to the script and the unique perspective it offered. While Jesperson's crimes are undeniably horrifying, the series "Happy Face" focuses on the human side of the story—particularly the complex bond between Jesperson and his daughter. "What intrigued me was the relationship with his daughter," Quaid explained. "That's the heart of the story. It's not just about the murders; it's about the people affected by them, and how they cope with the aftermath."

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Bringing Keith Jesperson to Life

Quaid's portrayal of Jesperson is nothing short of chilling. The actor spent months researching the real-life killer, delving into his background and motivations to create a nuanced performance. "It's one thing to play a bad guy, but it's another to understand why they do what they do," he said. "That's what I tried to bring to the role—to humanize him without excusing his actions." Despite his deep dive into Jesperson's psyche, Quaid remains clear about his feelings toward the real person. "I don't care what he thinks of my performance," he stated firmly. "This isn't about him; it's about telling a story that needs to be told."

True Crime Fans Will Love It

For fans of true crime, "Happy Face" promises to deliver a gripping experience. Quaid believes the series will resonate with audiences who are fascinated by the darker corners of human nature. "I think people will get addicted to it," he predicted. "It's not just about the murders—it's about the people involved, the emotions, the relationships. It's a true story, and that makes it even more compelling."

Quaid also shared that his passion for true crime isn't just a professional interest. He and his wife, Laura Savoie, are avid fans of crime documentaries and TV shows. "We fall asleep to Dateline, particularly the murder stories," he joked. "It's something we both enjoy, and it definitely influenced my decision to take on this role."

A New Side of Dennis Quaid

With "Happy Face," Dennis Quaid proves once again that he's more than just a friendly face on the big screen. This bold new role showcases his versatility as an actor and his willingness to step outside his comfort zone. "It was a challenge, but it was also an opportunity to explore something different," he reflected. "I hope viewers see that and appreciate the effort that went into bringing this story to life."

As "Happy Face" premieres on Paramount+, fans can expect a gripping, emotional journey that delves into the complexities of crime, family, and redemption. Whether you're a longtime Quaid fan or a true crime enthusiast, this series is sure to leave a lasting impression.