Geena Davis is heading to HBO for a true crime drama centered on Dorothea Puente, one of California's most prolific serial killers. The Oscar-winning actor will star in and executive produce the project, titled simply "Dorothea."
Joshua Michael Stern, known for his work on prestige television, writes and serves as showrunner. He co-wrote the story with Michael Rosenbaum and Jane Whitney. The creative team also includes executive producer Jeff Frost.
Puente operated a boarding house in Sacramento during the 1980s, where she preyed on elderly and disabled residents, ultimately killing nine people. Her crimes remained undetected for years before authorities arrested her in 1988. The case became a landmark moment in true crime history, exposing gaps in elder care oversight and law enforcement response.
HBO's commitment to the project reflects the network's sustained appetite for serialized true crime content. The prestige cable network has thrived with projects like "The Jinx," "Murder on Middle Beach," and the recent "The Idol," demonstrating audience hunger for darker, character-driven narratives. Davis brings significant star power and credibility to the role. The actor won Best Supporting Actress for "The Fly" in 1987 and has maintained a respected career across film and television.
Stern's involvement as showrunner suggests a sophisticated, character-focused approach rather than sensationalist exploitation. His track record includes nuanced storytelling in drama. Rosenbaum, known for acting work in projects like "Smallville," brings additional creative perspective to the writing process.
The Dorothea Puente case remains one of American crime's most chilling sagas. Her victims, often marginalized people without strong family networks, proved vulnerable to her manipulation and predation. The project taps into ongoing cultural interest in how syst