My Father, the BTK Killer is the latest Netflix true-crime documentary that delves deep into one of the most disturbing real-life cases in American history. Told through the eyes of Kerri Rawson, the daughter of infamous serial killer Dennis Rader, the film explores the emotional aftermath of discovering that the loving father she knew was, in fact, the notorious BTK Killer — short for Bind, Torture, Kill.
Synopsis of My Father, the BTK Killer
Directed by Skye Borgman, known for acclaimed Netflix titles like American Murder: The Family Next Door and Girl in the Picture, this gripping documentary reconstructs the horrors committed by Dennis Rader, a man who lived a seemingly ordinary life as a church leader and family man while secretly terrorizing Wichita, Kansas.
The story follows Kerri Rawson’s emotional journey as she confronts her father’s crimes and searches for answers about his motives. Combining exclusive interviews, archival footage, police files, and raw personal reflections, the film reveals how Rader’s double life shattered the people closest to him — and how Kerri has struggled to rebuild her identity ever since his 2005 arrest.
Cast and Participants in My Father, the BTK Killer
As a documentary, the film features real-life interviews and authentic footage, including:
- Kerri Rawson, whose heartbreaking story anchors the documentary.
- Dennis Rader (BTK Killer), appearing through chilling interrogation tapes and original recordings.
- Skye Borgman, director and true-crime specialist known for her emotionally charged storytelling.
- Investigators and journalists involved in the decades-long hunt that ultimately exposed Rader’s identity.
How Long Is My Father, the BTK Killer?
The documentary is a feature-length film running approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. It’s a self-contained story designed for a single, immersive viewing — ideal for those who enjoy intense, real-life thrillers.
My Father, the BTK Killer Trailer
Is My Father, the BTK Killer Worth Watching?
Absolutely. My Father, the BTK Killer is more than just another serial-killer documentary — it’s a haunting, emotional portrait of how one man’s crimes ripple through generations. Rather than glorifying the murderer, the film centers on Kerri’s resilience and the psychological trauma left in the wake of her father’s actions.
If you’re a fan of true-crime stories that balance horror with humanity, this is a must-watch. It’s both devastating and deeply thought-provoking, showing how confronting the truth can become the first step toward healing.
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Facts and Behind-the-Scenes Details About My Father, the BTK Killer
- The name BTK stands for Bind, Torture, Kill, describing Dennis Rader’s brutal methods.
- Rader led a double life — he was a church president and scout leader, which made his exposure even more shocking.
- His daughter, Kerri Rawson, also wrote a best-selling memoir, A Serial Killer’s Daughter: My Story of Faith, Love, and Overcoming.
- Director Skye Borgman is known for transforming true-crime cases into intimate, character-driven narratives.
- The documentary premiered worldwide on October 10, 2025, and quickly entered Netflix’s global Top 10 for true-crime titles.
Where to Watch My Father, the BTK Killer
My Father, the BTK Killer is available exclusively on Netflix. You can stream it in multiple languages, with subtitles and audio options available for global audiences.
Conclusion
My Father, the BTK Killer is a powerful addition to Netflix’s growing lineup of true-crime documentaries. It doesn’t just retell gruesome events — it humanizes the aftermath, exploring what happens when evil hides behind a familiar face.
Through Kerri Rawson’s perspective, viewers witness not only a shocking revelation but also an inspiring story of survival, forgiveness, and self-discovery. If you’re drawn to psychological depth and emotional storytelling, this documentary will stay with you long after the credits roll.
