Geena Davis To Star In HBO True Crime Drama About Dorothea Puente

HBO is developing a new true crime drama titled Dorothea, which will star Oscar winner Geena Davis in the lead role. Davis will also serve as an executive producer on the project. The series is written by Joshua Michael Stern, who will also act as showrunner. The story is co-written by Michael Rosenbaum and Jane Whitney, drawing inspiration from the life of Dorothea Puente, a woman who became known as California's most notorious female serial killer.

Dorothea Puente operated a boarding house in Sacramento, California, during the 1980s. She was convicted in 1988 for the murders of three individuals, though authorities suspected her involvement in up to 15 deaths. Puente's crimes involved drugging and robbing elderly and mentally disabled individuals, then murdering them and burying their bodies on her property. Her case gained significant media attention due to the gruesome nature of her crimes and her subsequent capture after fleeing the state.

The drama aims to explore the chilling story of Puente, delving into her methods and the investigation that led to her downfall. The involvement of Geena Davis, known for her roles in "Thelma & Louise" and "Commander in Chief," signals a significant commitment to the project. Michael Rosenbaum, an actor and producer, and Joshua Michael Stern, a writer and director known for "Jobs," are also key figures behind the development, bringing their respective creative expertise to the series. The project is being developed by HBO, a network recognized for its critically acclaimed dramatic series.